What makes for the best special needs school?
Choosing the right special needs school or program for your child
Find a list of schools
Quick summary
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Students with special needs require a special education. No matter their challenge, whether it’s learning, developmental, physical, or behavioural/emotional, they’ll need some kind of educational support.
But what’s the right program for your child? And what’s the best way to find it?
It’s important to find the right school for your child. If your child has special needs, this can be quite challenging. You should look at several schools and programs and choose one that’s the right fit.
What’s most important is whether the school is a good fit for your child. You’ll need to consider some crucial questions.
Often, kids who need lots of support for their special needs are better off in a full-time program. For instance, a child with severe autism may be best off in a dedicated special needs school or class. This may be an autism-only program, or one supporting kids with other special needs as well.
Kids who need less support for their special needs, meanwhile, may not need a full-time program. For instance, a child with mild dyslexia may be best off in a school with part-time special needs support. They may do well in a school with a withdrawal special education class or in a regular class with breakout groups.
Special needs questions (read our in-depth answers) |
Besides factors related to your child, you should consider factors related to you and your family.
Finally, you should also consider general factors. These relate to a school or program’s overall suitability. These are the kinds of factors you should consider when choosing any private school.
You need to decide what kind of special needs school or program is best for child. This is a big decision which shouldn’t be taken lightly.
We suggest breaking this decision down into three steps. Do basic research, narrow your choices down, and make the final decision. You should go through these steps in order. Don’t move to the next one until you’ve completed the preceding one.
There are many great resources to help you in your search for the right special needs school or program. Below, we discuss some of the main ones.
Learning environment
Joanne Foster, educational specialist, and co-author (with Dona Matthews) of Beyond Intelligence, Secrets for Raising Happily Productive Kids
“An ideal learning environment is one where there’s an emphasis on the well-being and specific educational requirements of the individual. Programming matches vary across domains, and change over time. There is choice—because children’s interests, aspirations, and learning preferences matter. Children are treated with respect and understanding. They’re encouraged to take pleasure in striving to do their best, and to recognize value from encountering and overcoming obstacles. There are opportunities for self-discovery and creative expression. And, there is ample support and guidance when children require direction or assistance.”
Una Malcolm, director of Bright Light Learners, a personalized educational support program in Toronto, Ontario
“A great special needs school needs to excel in both programming as well as environment. In order for a school to best support the needs of exceptional learners, the school needs to be aligned with current empirical research. The school must be using research-validated programming and pedagogy to best support these students. Strong instruction, however, is not the only aspect of a successful special education school. The overall learning environment must also be considered. Is it supportive? Is the school geared towards highlighting student strengths and progress? Are teachers warm, nurturing, and supportive?”
Ann Wolff, educational consultant at Wolff Education Services, in Toronto, Ontario
“The most important thing to know is that there is not one ‘ideal learning environment’ for special needs students. The best learning environment is one that meets the specific needs of each student. It is a place that takes the times to review all assessments and is willing to work collaboratively with the family to ensure the staff know where the student is (academically as well as socially and emotionally) and what are realistic goals and expectations. When possible, students should also be consulted and part of the ‘team.’”
Elaine Danson, educational consultant at Elaine Danson and Associates Educational Consultants, in Toronto, Ontario
“There is no specific learning environment that is ideal for all special needs students. The ‘ideal environment’ is the one that fits the child's needs, not only academically but socially and emotionally.”
Simon Williams, co-executive director of Foothills Academy, a learning disabilities school in Calgary, Alberta
“The ideal learning environment for students with learning disabilities is one where students feel safe and supported. Many students have struggled in school, and their sense of self-efficacy may be low; in essence, they may have given up trying because they have seen no success, despite their efforts. Their frustrations may have grown too, as these students know they are capable, but their learning disability is simply not being served in the public system or at a regular private school, and therefore they are failing despite their best efforts. It is the job of the specialized school to provide the supports, academically, socially, and emotionally, which will allow students to feel like they can try again without fear of failure, and with the realization of success.
Much of this is created by having a teacher who understands each student’s emotional and academic needs, and can develop a strong relationship with each child. Teachers should build relationships to develop students’ autonomy and competence, which enhances students’ self-determination and ability to be successful in the immediate and long-term future.”
Kelley Caston, principal of Wildwood Academy, a special needs school in Oakville, Ontario
“Students with special needs benefit from small class sizes, where their individual strengths, needs, and interests are incorporated because this allows them to be successful. If students are in an environment where they are successful, their self-esteem and motivation to learn will increase. Positive reinforcement and attention to good behaviour create an environment that promotes learning and positive student-teacher relationships.”
Jeff Clayton, communications director at WillowWood School, a school with strong special needs support, in Toronto, Ontario
“The ideal learning environment for special education is probably the same as any ideal learning environment: positive, kind, patient, encouraging, challenging; with the fluidity and flexibility to allow for many kinds of learners. It is a place which students enjoy coming to in the morning and which they leave feeling good.”
Teachers
Dona Matthews, educational specialist, and co-author (with Joanne Foster) of Beyond Intelligence, Secrets for Raising Happily Productive Kids
“The best special needs programs and schools have teachers and assessment specialists who are trained to see each child’s learning needs as unique, complex, and ever-changing. The teachers are given the training, resources, and support they need to meet those learning needs. The teachers and administrators realize that children’s abilities are in the process of developing. They therefore stay away from labels as much as possible. Where labels (e.g., attention deficit disordered, learning disabled, gifted, etc.) might be useful, they are used provisionally, to describe the kind of educational programming the child needs at a given point in time (e.g., “This child requires gifted-level mathematical challenges, at about the sixth grade level, along with support for focus, planning, and attention.”) Teachers, other support staff, and parents are encouraged to see the children’s special learning needs changing over time, with the right kind of support, challenges, and opportunities to learn.”
Ruth Rumack, director of Ruth Rumack’s Learning Space, a personalized educational support program, in Toronto, Ontario
“Teachers play a crucial role in special needs schools and programs. A great special needs school and program should generally have a low teacher-to-student ratio, with experienced teachers who are open to working as part of a team. Qualified teachers should be knowledgeable of most recent research-based programs and best practices for each learning style, able to personalize lessons to match the needs and interests of each student, and experienced advocating for the student. Additionally, teachers should possess personality traits such as patience, kindness, compassion, flexibility, and insightfulness to provide appropriate emotional and academic support while working with students.”
Joanne Foster, educational specialist, and co-author (with Dona Matthews) of Beyond Intelligence, Secrets for Raising Happily Productive Kids
“Great (special needs) teachers help each student set and aspire toward realistic goals. They help children learn to recognize their limitations, capabilities, and emotions, and monitor their feelings, knowledge, and progress. Effective teachers help kids develop important skills, such as learning how to prioritize, plan, organize, and self-motivate. The best teachers are calm, and model resilience, mindfulness, and rest and renewal. They’re engaged in their own personal growth, solicit outside help when needed, and work collaboratively with parents, students, professionals, and others.”
Elaine Danson, educational consultant at Elaine Danson and Associates Educational Consultants, in Toronto, Ontario
“The teacher working with special needs students firstly requires the specific educational courses (as outlined by the Ministry of Education) to address the issues and be able to apply strategies. Professional development is key for all teachers, but keeping on top of issues and discussing strategies with peers is very important for a special needs teacher as well. The teacher typically will have a ‘toolbox’ of ideas and strategies, so that every child gets what they need. The same qualities that are important for all teachers, empathy, patience, and a sense of humour also, of course, are necessary for the special needs teacher.”
Ann Wolff, educational consultant at Wolff Education Services, in Toronto, Ontario
“What makes a great special needs/special education teacher is the same as any other teacher…they must know their students and deliver the curriculum accordingly. A great teacher is one who is prepared to work with the student and their family to ensure the program is meeting the needs of the student. A great teacher teaches the ‘whole child,’ academically, socially, and emotionally.”
Kelley Caston, principal of Wildwood Academy, a special needs school in Oakville, Ontario
“A great special education teacher is a teacher who believes that every student can learn. As a result, they are motivated to discover what educational strategies work best for their students and know that their strategies may change day to day, even class to class or moment to moment. A great special education teacher does not think of themselves in isolation, but as part of a team. Teachers, school administration, parents, guardians, therapists, and many more, all should work in the best interests of the student.”
What to look for in a school
Joanne Foster, educational specialist, and co-author (with Dona Matthews) of Beyond Intelligence, Secrets for Raising Happily Productive Kids
“Here is a YES/NO checklist of critical questions to consider when looking at a special needs school. If the answer to a question is YES, go back and find out how. If the answer is NO, consider finding out why. And, if it is being addressed by the school, how.
Ruth Rumack, director of Ruth Rumack’s Learning Space, a personalized educational support program, in Toronto, Ontario
“When visiting a special needs school or deciding on a particular program, parents should look at the school’s environment, approach to teaching, learning and classroom structure, and opportunities for extracurricular activities. A good starting point for a parent may be to ask themselves whether they would enjoy spending time in that environment.
Questions parents might consider include:
A school’s learning approach is also an important factor for parents to consider. Parents may ask questions such as:
Finally, consideration of social aspects should not be overlooked, because it is vital in determining whether a school is a good fit for your child. Questions parents might ask include:
Ian Peterson, business development director of Heritage School, a special needs school in Provo, Utah
“When visiting a special needs school parents should see that the classrooms are dynamic, well-paced, and student-centered. The following are questions they should consider:
Kelley Caston, principal of Wildwood Academy, a special needs school in Oakville, Ontario
“What parents should look for in a school:
One of the largest indicators of a school’s quality is the attitude of the students. If the students you see at the school are happy, then they are in a place that is helping facilitate their success.
Parents should ask about class sizes and how students are grouped and assessed.
Students should visit a school for at least one full day before enrollment to ensure that they are a good fit for it. Parents should ask if their child can participate in a trial day at the school to get a sense of whether or not their needs will be met.”
Simon Williams, co-executive director of Foothills Academy, a learning disabilities school in Calgary, Alberta
“When visiting a special educational needs school, parents need to ask specific questions relating to their child’s needs and how exactly the school will plan and program for their child. They should find out what additional supports their child will have access to. It is important for the child to see the school and understand the benefits of the school, so that they are more likely to engage when attending the school. Parents should also inquire about the specialized skills, knowledge, and training which the staff have or receive. It’s important for parents to know that their children are in the very best, most capable hands, to allow them to be successful and reach their true potential.”
Terry Stevenson, director of Applewood Academy for Progressive Learning, a special needs school in Belleville, Ontario
“Here are some questions that parents should ask schools:
Extracurricular activities
Joanne Foster, educational specialist, and co-author (with Dona Matthews) of Beyond Intelligence, Secrets for Raising Happily Productive Kids
“Extracurricular activities enable children to enhance their personal growth, and follow their dreams. This is true for all students. Provided that there is not overwhelming pressure, and that children do not experience excessive demands, there is much to be gained from relevant, suitable, and pleasurable activities. The following who, what, and why points about the benefits of extracurricular activities are published in the creativity post.
Who and what: Extracurricular activities provide opportunities for children and teens to engage in the arts, recreation, athletics, scholarly pursuits, and more, based on their interests and preferences. These activities can supplement the learning experiences typically incorporated within a school curriculum, from preschool through college.
Why: Sometimes a school program does not have the capacity to meet a child’s particular needs or exceptionalities, and so that individual may want additional challenges or opportunities. Other times, kids may seek outlets that will give them a chance to extend their creativity, or to find social or emotional connections and support through meaningful interaction with others who have similar interests. Extracurricular activities can provide enjoyable, relevant, and mind-stretching ways to forge relationships, and broaden conventional educational offerings.
Here are four more factors that speak to the value of extracurricular activities:
Una Malcolm, director of Bright Light Learners, a personalized educational support program in Toronto, Ontario
“Extracurricular activities and sports are essential. Many students with learning disabilities will have clear strengths. A child may excel in sports, or he or she may be an extremely talented debater, or perhaps a gifted artist. Schools will ideally have plenty of opportunities for students to participate in the activities in which they excel; this helps to preserve a child’s self-esteem and self-confidence.”
Jenna Rowney-Giroux, vice principal of Heritage Academy of Learning Excellence, a special needs school in Ottawa, Ontario
“Hosting a variety of extracurriculars and varying forms of support venues outside of the classroom is vital. Students need an outlet for their energy and a dedicated time to explore their interests. A multitude of options should be offered, such as STEAM club, music programs, resource support, study halls, tutoring support, jiu-jitsu, magic club, and Dungeons and Dragons.”
Read our advice guide on choosing a school for a child with special needs and for kids with other traits. To get school-choice advice customized to your child's unique traits, create a child profile through your user account. |
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Grades:
8 to 12 (Coed)
Type:
Progressive
Tuition:
$8,900 to $19,500
Living:
Day/Homestay
Enrollment:
47
Avg. Class:
3 to 6
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Kenneth Gordon Maplewood School is a centre of excellence in developmentally informed instruction that empowers children with learning disabilities in a passionate, progressive and inspiring learning environment.
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Brighton is the leading private school in Toronto for students with academic and/or social challenges. We offer curriculum-based and remedial Elementary programs; and credit, pre-credit and non-credit Secondary streams.
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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.
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Magnificent Minds Inc. caters to students whose needs are not being met in traditional school environments, pursuing personal best through a balanced approach to education.
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Centennial Academy is a bilingual high school supporting student success through an inclusive, structured environment that provides all learners with 25 academic accommodations.
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Team School offers programs from grades 1 to 12 in Mississauga. Its average class size is 8 to 12 students.
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In a welcoming environment , HFAS assists our exceptional learners to reach their potential and to succeed. We focus on personal responsibility, initiative, independence, organization, self-regulation and time management
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Venture Academy is a therapeutic treatment and education program for students who may be struggling with mood disorders & anxiety disorders, behavioural challenges, substance misuses, ADHD, ADD and ODD
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ABA based curriculum and individualized approach targets not only academic success but also emotional, social, vocational and life skills that are the core skills of life-long success of each student.
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Venture Academy is a therapeutic treatment and education program for students who may be struggling with ADHD, learning challenges, underachieving, behavioural issues, and a variety of clinical diagnoses.
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Grades:
3 to 12 (Boys)
Type:
Progressive
Tuition:
$35,880
Living:
Day
Enrollment:
447
Avg. Class:
16
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Grades:
PS to 12 (Coed)
Type:
Liberal Arts
Tuition:
$7,000 to $16,000
Living:
Day
Enrollment:
350
Avg. Class:
10 to 15
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Grades:
PS to 12 (Coed)
Type:
Traditional
Tuition:
$14,500 to $18,000
Living:
Day
Enrollment:
290
Avg. Class:
12 to 18
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Toronto, Ontario — Crescent School is a Toronto independent day school for boys in Grades 3 to 12. Our relational learning environment develops students' characters through academics, arts, athletics, business, outreach and robotics. View School Profile.
Grades:
3 to 12 (Boys)
Type:
Progressive
Tuition:
$39,590
Living:
Day
Enrollment:
800
Avg. Class:
15 to 20
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Grades:
1 to 12 (Coed)
Type:
Progressive
Tuition:
$15,000 to $66,000
Living:
Day
Enrollment:
0
Avg. Class:
6 to 15
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Grades:
7 to 12 (Coed)
Type:
Traditional
Tuition:
$29,450
Living:
Day
Enrollment:
430
Avg. Class:
14 to 16
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Grades:
JK to 8 (Coed)
Type:
Progressive
Tuition:
$28,150 to $35,185
Living:
Day
Enrollment:
340
Avg. Class:
8 to 18
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Grades:
JK to 12 (Coed)
Type:
Traditional, International Baccalaureate
Tuition:
$10,950 to $50,000
Living:
Day/Boarding
Enrollment:
250
Avg. Class:
10 to 16
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Grades:
JK to 12 (Coed)
Type:
Progressive, International Baccalaureate
Tuition:
$35,000
Living:
Day
Enrollment:
742
Avg. Class:
15 to 20
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Grades:
JK to 6 (Coed)
Type:
Progressive, International Baccalaureate
Tuition:
$31,500
Living:
Day
Enrollment:
140
Avg. Class:
16 to 20
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Grades:
PS to 12 (Coed)
Type:
Traditional
Tuition:
$18,700 to $75,400
Living:
Boarding/Day
Enrollment:
303
Avg. Class:
15
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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
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Incorporating academic excellence, service and peace-making, Rockway is a diverse learning community of students in Grades 7 to 12 including a dynamic international student exchange program.
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Since our founding in 1896, we have nurtured the unique talents and passions of our students to help them become the leaders of tomorrow, forming them into men and women for others.
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The main objective of FMA is to provide your child with a planned and stimulating environment in order for them to be able to reach their own individual and highest learning potential while honouring the whole child.
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Total student growth -- academically, athletically, spiritually, socially, with a heart for community service.
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River Valley is a Pre-K to Gr. 6 school that harnesses the innate curiosity in children to ensure that every student will flourish academically and socially.
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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 eight Blyth Academy campuses in Ontario.
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Trafalgar Castle offers a close-knit, academically challenging environment where girls feel a strong sense of belonging and discover their unique talents and interests.
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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.
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Set in 220 acres of North Yorkshire countryside, Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate welcomes girls and boys from 3 months old to 19 years, with 81% A*/A achieved at A Level. Fees range from £16,005 to £19,200 per term.
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WILD stands for Wilderness Integrated Leadership Development. Our core program integrates the Ontario Curriculum with a whole student approach focusing on our four pillars: mental, emotional, metaphysical and physical.
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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.
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HDCH, founded in 1956, is imaginative, innovative & interwoven with our essential Biblical identity. Our programs are designed to challenge a wide range of learners. We welcome local and international students!
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Bannockburn School leads in Montessori education by offering an exceptional, enriched Montessori curriculum in a nurturing environment carefully prepared to meet the needs of children in the formative years of childhood.
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Diverse, warm community. Small classes. Exceptional phonics program to build early literacy. Collaborative, multi-strategy approach to math. Public speaking, the arts, outdoor ed, mindfulness, community engagement.
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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.
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Lower Canada College is a gender-inclusive, K-12 university preparatory school, committed to excellence in teaching and learning. It is the only high school in Quebec offering both the IB MYP and DP.
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Christ is the center of Richmond Hill Christian Academy. To know Him and to make Him known is our mission while at the same time, preparing the next generation for academic excellence in His service is our goal!
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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.
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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.
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Crestwood School in Toronto offers JK to grade six, with an enrolment of 350 students. Class sizes average 15 students and tuition starts at $19,500.
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Vancouver's only dedicated STEM high school, VISST offers the full BC curriculum with accelerated & enriched STEM including computer science starting from Grade 8. Students will learn from domain experts and PhDs.
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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.
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Our students learn in a progressive, authentic, inspiring, welcoming, nurturing and in a safe, child-centred environment. Our small size, with one class for each grade, gives a sense of being part of a close-knit family.
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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".
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Meadow Green Academy provides a strong Christian education in a nurturing environment. Strong academics combined with sports, enriched music, visual arts, and dramatic arts programs provide a well-rounded experience
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At SCELS we believe giving children an early education will build a solid foundation to prepare them for their next school setting.
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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.
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Our rigorous, personalized programme and strong teacher-student relationships enable us to cultivate each student's talents, helping them build on strengths and discover the joy of learning.
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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.
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Kawartha Montessori School is the only CCMA-accredited school in the region. We offer an education that inspires academic excellence and develops socially responsible, independent, and confident individuals.
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Don Valley Academy is a private high school whose primary aim is to prepare our students for post-secondary studies. We are dedicated to providing educational programs that meet the individual needs of each student.
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Grade 9-12 students are encouraged to be confident servant-leaders. Student diversity provides a global perspective of life and faith. Great Lakes' graduates are accepted by colleges and universities of their choice.
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University of Toronto Schools (UTS) offers a transformative education to high-achieving students in Grades 7 to 12 from all backgrounds. UTS graduates take initiative and innovate as socially responsible global citizens.
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For more than 40 years, Kanata Montessori has been graduating students with self-confidence, critical thinking skills, respect, high academic achievement, and an international perspective.
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Aurora Montessori offers an enriched Montessori program for students, Toddler to Grade 8, with an option of an OSSD credit in Grade 9 Math. A unique Mindfulness and Technology program develops key 21st-century skills!
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LCH is the only full-service independent high school in London. Through a Christian worldview, we offer the OSSD, OFSAA sports, extracurriculars, travel opportunities, and authentic learning experiences.
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The Maples is an established private IB World School in Orangeville, Ontario providing exemplary education for students (Pre-School to Grade 8). Daily French instruction in PS and Kindergarten with an academic focus.
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Walden International School, Oakville, offers enriched, child-centred, academic programs from Pre-K through Grade 8. Class sizes up to 18 students depending on grade level.
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With faculty that truly cares for your child’s wellbeing, we provide a rare tight-knit community that feels like home. With a warm and welcoming culture, students are inspired to confidently make their mark in the world.
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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.
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Since 1964, SSS Rome has provided International Boarding and Day Students with a culturally inspiring and rigorous academic IB education in the heart of Ancient Rome.
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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.
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RJC is a Grades 10-12 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.
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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.
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Trillium provides a comprehensive, vibrant and academically vigorous Waldorf education. Students are welcomed into a warm environment with teachers who care deeply for them, and support their holistic development.
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-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.
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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.
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Heschel provides a progressive, academically innovative, interdisciplinary Jewish education in a warm, nurturing environment. Students develop habits of mind, body, heart and soul that enable them to make a difference.
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Scholars' Hall is a family-focused school that uses traditional teaching methods combined with a fully integrated Leadership program to raise strong, capable, independent, and intelligent young adults.
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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.
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By proposing the learning excellence of the French Ministry of Education strongly anchored in Toronto life and Canadian culture, our school offers students the best of both cultures.
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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.
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UC offers year-ahead advanced programs from pre-school to Grade 9. We blend high standards for academic success with the social and emotional development of the individual child.
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Ridley College is an acclaimed co-educational IB boarding and day school that prepares meaningful and flourishing lives by teaching the habits of mind, body, and spirit, and the values needed to lead in a global society.
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Turnbull School is dedicated to academic excellence in a caring environment. We offer highly qualified teachers, small class sizes, well rounded and enriching programming, and variety in athletics, science and the arts.
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Revel Academy is a learner-driven micro-school that utilizes adaptive and mastery-based technology, Socratic discussions, hands-on projects, and real-world apprenticeships in an innovative, character-forging community.
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Quo Vadis, through a Polish-English bilingual program, aims to assist in the formation of well-rounded, responsible individuals, promotes academic excellence and encourages self-esteem within a Catholic environment.
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At Vaughan College instructions are embedded with strategies appropriate to the students' unique needs. We develop students' confidence and their urge to do better, which results in a high university acceptance rate.
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Rundle students enter their post-secondary schools of choice thanks to our enriched academics and character, leadership, and wellness pillars. We proudly live by our values, Together: Be Kind, Be Curious, Be Well.
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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.
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Our four year program is developed to equip and inspire students to cultivate their humanity. We are distinctly different: a small IB middle school that fosters intellectual engagement, citizenship and leadership.
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At Hitherfield we believe that every child is unique, and has their own strengths and interests. With individualized programming, Hitherfield continues to nurture growth, success and confidence in all of our students.
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TFS - Canada's International School (West Campus) offers the Ontario, France and IB programs from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 7 in Mississauga.
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The Mabin School offers programs from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6 in Toronto. Its average class size is 20 students.
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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.
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CHMS offers authentic supportive, vibrant, child centered AMI Montessori that is perfect for curious, inquisitive students looking to thrive in a social, hands on, collaborative, challenging environment.
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Each student is unique. Why be just a number when you can be valued for who you are? We enfold, engage and empower every student in a safe, friendly, and supportive learning community. It's where you belong!
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Toronto Waldorf School offers a curriculum that integrates academics, arts and movement while addressing the intellectual, physical, emotional and social aspects of child development from preschool to gr. 12.
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Humberside Montessori School is internationally recognized and accredited by Association Montessori Internationale (AMI). Our AMI certified teachers provide an authentic Montessori experience for our students.
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King’s Christian Collegiate is an independent Christian high school providing superb instruction in a safe, stimulating academic environment. Caring staff set the tone for a positive, up-beat culture.
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We provide students with opportunities to explore real-world concepts and issues, broadening their sense of responsibility, develop their critical thinking skills, and empower them to take action in a global community.
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La Villa Montessori is an AMI recognized School that adheres to Dr. Montessori's principles. We provide a nurturing environment that fulfills the child's emotional, social, physical and intellectual needs.
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Ashwood Glen offers a Montessori program for children aged 18months - 6 yrs. The Grades 1 - 8 Learning Program applies the IB framework to extend the learning outcomes of the Ontario curriculum.
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Our curriculum are designed to build essential skills and concepts that help with the cognitive, social, creative, emotional, and physical development of your child with the aim to be a successful learner for life!
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Girls at St. Anne's will thrive in an inspirational and progressive learning environment. The school’s focus on STEM/STEAM, community giving, leadership, and wellness will develop well-rounded, global-minded citizens.
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The Study, founded in 1915, is one of Canada's premier all-girls' schools. Dedicated teachers offer a warm and stimulating bilingual mother-tongue environment from Kindergarten to Grade 11. The World Needs Great Women.
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We are proud to offer families Private elementary school education where God and His Word are central to the curriculum. Our faculty of qualified teachers is committed to loving and teaching each child.
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Notre Dame is a private, independent co-educational high school with an exceptional educational & boarding experience with a balance of strong academic, athletic and spiritual growth in a safe & caring prairie community.
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Brampton Christian School in Caledon, Ontario, offers an academic-based, JK to Grade 12 program, with average class sizes from 18 to 24 students and a one-student tuition cost of $11, 780.
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Bishop Hamilton Montessori School, a not-for-profit independent school in Ottawa, provides an authentic Christian Montessori approach for children 3 months to 14 years.
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Special needs schools for boys
For boys with special needs, a specialized education environment is even more beneficial. (August 19, 2019)
Special Needs Day Schools
Private special needs day schools are a tremendous chance for your child to receive an excellent education (June 11, 2019)
Maritimes special needs schools
Find special needs schools in the Maritimes provinces listed below. (June 11, 2019)
Coed Special Needs Schools
An environment most like real work or post-secondary education will help prepare them for the future. (May 15, 2019)
