Deanna Wysocki wanted her four sons to experience the same sense of independence she enjoyed as a student at a boarding school that taught discipline and responsibility. For Anne-Marie Wielhorski Lyttle, boarding school seemed the only option when her children graduated from Montessori and there were no private schools nearby that would have been a good fit. Her eldest daughter tried public school, but her motivation quickly waned.
Wysocki has seen her four sons—now between 10 and 21 years old—become more independent and gain self-confidence at Robert Land Academy, a private boarding school in Wellandport, Ontario, “It teaches them life skills,” Wysocki says. “If you don’t work hard enough, there are disadvantages. And that is life.”
That sense of independence is one of the main benefits of the boarding school environment, adds Lt. F. Greg Hewett, the school’s admissions officer and a former student. “I think that is one thing a boarding school will always give you over home,” Hewett says. “ At home, you are very reliant.”
Wielhorski Lyttle, whose four children attended Lakefield College School in Lakefield, Ontario, says there was an added bonus. When her kids came home for a week every five weeks, Lyttle says she was amazed by how respectful they’d become and appreciative of everything she did for them. “They really appreciate you as a person, and they want to spend time with you,” she says. “I never went through the door-slamming ‘I hate you’ stuff.”
Boarding schools also have a reputation for strong sports and arts programs, along with a different environment for social development, says Rena Upitis, an education professor at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario. “I wouldn’t even say it’s better, I’d just say different,” she says. “What students learn when they’re in that boarding school situation is a different form of living in community, that you just can’t learn when you’re not boarding.”
But that environment can lead to strong friendships, Hewett says. “To this day, one of my very best friends was my first roommate from Robert Land. That’s almost 30 years ago now.”
Cutting edge academic programs, such as Focus Learning, suggest that, yes, they do. [Read more]
| School Name | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
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Branksome Hall (est. 1903)
Branksome Hall is an all girls school in Toronto, from JK to Grade 12, including 56 boarding students. Tuition ranges from $28,995 to $31,245 for day students. [View profile] |
$32,570 to $64,305 |
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Neuchâtel Junior College (est. 1956)
Neuchâtel Junior College, in Neuchâtel, Switzerland, offers Canadian Grade 12 curriculum and AP to students from across Canada and beyond. [View profile] |
SF 56,000 |
|
Trafalgar Castle School (est. 1874)
Located in Whitby, Trafalgar Castle School is an all-girls day and boarding school inspiring students in Grades 4-12. For nearly 150 years, Trafalgar Castle girls have become women of impact. [View profile] |
$22,545 to $59,515 |
|
Columbia International College (est. 1979)
Columbia International College is a day and boarding school, offering programs to international students in grades 7 to 12. [View profile] |
$7,383 to $18,000 /semester |
|
St. Michaels University School (est. 1906)
Independent K-12 boarding & day school in Victoria, BC, Canada focusing on university prep. Find out how a SMUS education can benefit your family. [View profile] |
$18,500 to $77,490 User reviews (3) |
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St. George's School (est. 1930)
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. [View profile] |
$22,450 to $68,085 |
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Chamberlain International School (est. 1976)
Co-ed therapeutic boarding school in Massachusetts for students 11-22 years. Student support is offered for learning disabilities, OCD, anxiety, ADHD, NLD, ASD, attachment disorder, bipolar disorder and depression. [View profile] |
US $58,227 to US $146,000 |
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Robert Land Academy (est. 1978)
Robert Land Academy is a private military-themed boarding school (Gr 5-12) helping boys to achieve their potential and gain admission to post-secondary programs. [View profile] |
$52,650 to $55,000 Our Kids Review |
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Brookes School Canada (est. 2009)
Brookes School Canada, an IB World School on beautiful Vancouver Island, offers grades 6 to 12 for both day and boarding students with an average class size of 12 students. [View profile] |
$14,400 to $52,550 |
|
McDonald International Academy (est. 1994)
McDonald International Academy offers programs for grades 9 to 12 with 2 locations in the heart of Toronto. Its average class size is 10 to 20 students. [View profile] |
$10,100 to $26,600 |
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Lakefield College School (est. 1879)
LCS offers world-class programming (Grades 9 -12) designed to meet the strengths of each student while encouraging growth through a school-wide Leadership, Character and Values program and enriched boarding experiences. [View profile] |
$32,800 to $65,400 User reviews (1) |
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Trinity College School (est. 1865)
TCS students appreciate that school needs to be more than just reaching their academic potential–it’s about exploring all facets of themselves so that the realization of talents reach far beyond the classroom walls. [View profile] |
$24,750 to $57,750 Our Kids Review User reviews (3) |
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Appleby College (est. 1911)
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. [View profile] |
$36,510 to $72,875 Our Kids Review |
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St. Margaret's School (est. 1908)
St. Margaret's School (est. 1908) is an independent school in Victoria, BC, offering empowering education for girls from JK to Grade 12. At SMS, girls don't just get equal opportunity; they get every opportunity. [View profile] |
$14,180 to $65,490 User reviews (5) |
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St. John's-Kilmarnock School (est. 1972)
St. John's-Kilmarnock School, in Waterloo, offers enriched educational programming for students from JK – Grade 12 through its accredited International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. Its average class size is 17. [View profile] |
$16,990 to $62,300 Our Kids Review |
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Bond Academy (est. 1978)
This traditional private school in Toronto offers preschool to grade 12 with average class sizes of 15 students. Facilities include a double gym and more. [View profile] |
$13,000 to $34,300 |
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Upper Canada College (est. 1829)
Located in the heart of Toronto, Upper Canada College is the oldest independent boys' school in Ontario. Our IB graduates are highly regarded by top universities and post-secondary institutions worldwide. [View profile] |
$32,650 to $64,205 Our Kids Review User reviews (2) |
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Rosseau Lake College (est. 1967)
Rosseau Lake College - The Personalized Learning Community [View profile] |
$10,100 to $51,100 User reviews (3) |
|
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Bishop's College School (est. 1836)
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 DP and course certificates. [View profile] |
$24,000 to $55,500 |
|
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Applewood Academy for Progressive Learning (est. 2001)
We are a licensed therapeutic boarding school for Gr. 1-12 students requiring individualized academic, clinical, and behaviour-management solutions in small class sizes and professional home environments. [View profile] |
$23,600 to $71,000 |
|
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Stanstead College (est. 1872)
Located on the Quebec-Vermont border, Stanstead College offers rigorous university-prep, Grades 7to 12, in a secure, family-focused learning environment. [View profile] |
$21,500 to $63,000 |
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Randolph-Macon Academy (est. 1892)
There is a power within you. The power to soar above self-imposed limitations, to create something new, to become a leader. Come explore Randolph-Macon Academy, and discover The Power of Rise. [View profile] |
US $14,350 to US $40,525 |
|
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Blyth Academy London (est. 2013)
We focus on personalized education, very small class sizes, and experiential learning. Our London campus is conveniently located in historic Ignatia Hall on the banks of the Thames. [View profile] |
$15,995 to $20,795 |
|
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Athol Murray College of Notre Dame (est. 1920)
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. [View profile] |
$10,100 to $49,900 |
|
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Bronte College (est. 1991)
Bronte College is a private International Baccalaureate (IB) World School offering Grades 9 to 12 for day and boarding students. Our academic programming has attracted students from over 30 countries. [View profile] |
$13,830 to $34,190 |
|
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Alpine Academy (est. 2001)
Alpine Academy isn't just a school, it is an experience that prepares young women for life beyond our campus. Students learn to engage in not only academics, but also family, community, and interpersonal relationships. [View profile] |
US $120,000 |
|
Collège Bourget is a day & boarding school situated between Montreal & Ottawa, that exceeds Quebec curriculum guidelines & ensures our students grow through different spheres: arts, sports, community service & science. [View profile] |
$4,700 to $35,000 |
|
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Rothesay Netherwood School (est. 1877)
Rothesay Netherwood School offers programs for grades six to 12 in Rothesay, New Brunswick. Its average class size is 14 to 16 students and an outstanding supportive community. [View profile] |
$20,110 to $54,090 |
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Niagara Christian Collegiate (est. 1932)
Niagara Christian Collegiate offers both middle school and secondary school programs from Grades 6-12. Graduating students achieve top university placements around the world. We accept both day and boarding students. [View profile] |
$9,672 to $24,120 |
|
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Great Lakes Christian High School (est. 1952)
Great Lakes Christian High School offers programs for grades nine through 12 in Beamsville. It accepts day and boarding students. [View profile] |
$5,750 to $39,300 |
|
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J. Addison School (est. 2002)
Since 2002, J. Addison has provided a stimulating education for students. Located at the corner of Woodbine and Valleywood Drive in Markham, ON, Canada, you will find our state-of-the-art 58,000 sq. ft. facility. [View profile] |
$16,400 to $40,800 |
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North Broward Preparatory School (est. 1957)
North Broward Preparatory School is a K-12 co-educational day and boarding school located in S. Florida located minutes from the beach with IB, AP, and LD classes set on 80 acres with year round hockey. [View profile] |
US $24,200 to US $59,950 |
|
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Havergal College (est. 1894)
Havergal College is an all-girls school in Toronto for students in JK to Grade 12. Preparing Young Women to Make a Difference Since 1894. [View profile] |
$32,750 to $59,875 Our Kids Review User reviews (1) |
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London International Academy (est. 2002)
A Canadian Private Secondary Co-ed Boarding school, located in downtown London, Ontario. LIA offers academic courses from Grades 9-12 and is authorized to grant the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). [View profile] |
$9,200 to $41,900 |
|
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St. Andrew's College (est. 1899)
St. Andrew's College offers programs from grades 5 to 12 in Aurora. Its average class size is 17 students. [View profile] |
$35,120 to $63,500 |
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We uphold and pursue a pragmatic, balanced education with an emphasis on art, sports and music to cultivate talents to lead the new century. [View profile] |
$20,000 to $35,000 |
|
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Buffalo Seminary (est. 1851)
Independent day and boarding school for college-bound girls. Our STEAM curriculum is unique, and creative, independent thinking is valued. Located in Buffalo, NY, girls access the best of city living. [View profile] |
US $21,900 to US $52,750 |
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Trillium School (est. 1991)
Trillium School is a montessori school that offers programs from pre-school to grade eight in Markham. [View profile] |
$6,900 to $44,500 |
|
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Bodwell High School (est. 1991)
Bodwell High School in North Vancouver is a full boarding school that enrolls 600 students. Tuition starts at $15,500. We provide Education for a Changing World. The school motto is "Strength in Diversity." [View profile] |
$19,150 to $38,450 |
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Class Afloat - West Island College International (est. 1984)
Class Afloat - West Island College International offers leading experiential education opportunities for Grade 11, 12, University and GAP year students. Students attend classes aboard a majestic tall ship, exploring over 20 ports of call worldwide. [View profile] |
$52,000 |
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Séminaire Marie-Reine-du-Clergé (est. 1956)
SMRC is a coed day and boarding high school in French Canada with a warm & relaxed natural campus, modern rooms, enrichment & support, technology enhanced classrooms & labs, 8 cultural & sports programs, 20+ activities [View profile] |
$3,580 to $28,480 |
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UWC Canada (est. 1974)
The UWC National Committee of Canada and Pearson College UWC represent the United World Colleges in Canada. We are seeking daring young Canadians who aspire to make the world a better place. [View profile] |
58,000 User reviews (5) |
|
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TAIE International Institute (est. 1998)
TAIE International Institute offers the Ontario Secondary School Diploma, University Preparation Courses and English as a Second Language. Flexible schedule and monthly enrollment at the best location in downtown Toronto [View profile] |
$23,000 |
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Durham Elementary, Durham Academy and G.B.M.S. (est. 1984)
Our schools offer a maximum class size of 16 students for ages 4 & up. Tours are offered daily and new students are welcome to visit for a day. [View profile] |
$9,700 to $11,500 |
|
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Montverde Academy (est. 1912)
Founded in 1912, Montverde Academy is an elite college preparatory school for students in grades Pre-K3 through post-graduate studies with a distinct student population from over 80 countries worldwide. [View profile] |
US $7,875 to US $51,350 |
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Princeton Academy of Canada (est. 2000)
Princeton Academy is a reputable private high school that offers high school credits from grades 9-12 to those who are working towards their Ontario Secondary School Diploma. The average class size is about 8-15 students [View profile] |
$10,000 to $18,800 |
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The Gow School (est. 1926)
The Gow School is a special needs private school that offers programs for grades seven through 12 in South Wales, New York. [View profile] |
US $46,000 to US $64,000 |
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Queen Margaret's School (est. 1921)
Queen Margaret's School is an independent day/boarding university preparatory school in Duncan, BC. [View profile] |
$6,250 to $46,700 User reviews (1) |
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Pickering College (est. 1842)
Pickering College's fully-integrated Global Leadership Program (JK to Grade 12) inspires students to become agents of courageous, ethical and positive change with the confidence, knowledge and skills to shape the future. [View profile] |
$26,520 to $67,075 User reviews (1) |
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Brentwood College School (est. 1923)
Brentwood is a truly co-educational, progressive boarding school for Grades 9 to 12 located on an oceanfront campus on Vancouver Island, BC. Tuition runs from $25,700 to $66,000. [View profile] |
$27,000 to $69,600 Our Kids Review |
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Rosthern Junior College (est. 1905)
RJC is a grades 10-12 private, boarding school accredited by the SK Ministry of Education. RJC’s International Student Program focuses on English language immersion, educational excellence, and cultural experience. [View profile] |
$7,435 to $25,350 User reviews (7) |
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The Bishop Strachan School (est. 1867)
Located in Toronto, The Bishop Strachan School is Canada's oldest independent JK to Grade 12 day and boarding school for girls, welcoming students from Toronto and around the world. [View profile] |
$32,060 to $60,730 User reviews (1) |
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Shawnigan Lake School (est. 1916)
Shawnigan Lake School is the largest boarding school in Canada. Located in Shawnigan Lake on Vancouver Island, we offer a comprehensive program to 500 young men and women in grades 8-12. [View profile] |
$27,200 to $67,900 |
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Hampshire Country School (est. 1948)
A friendly, active boarding school for bright boys who have good intentions but who may be too impulsive, intense, or bothersome for other schools and whose intellectual interests may separate them from their peers. [View profile] |
US $60,000 |
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North Star Academy Laval is the only private English high school in Laval. We offer small classroom sizes for individualized attention. We teach not only for school but for life! Certificate of eligibility not required. [View profile] |
$12,400 to $27,400 User reviews (1) |
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Briercrest Christian Academy (est. 1946)
BCA combines a private Christian school experience with the best of public education and Saskatchewan curriculum. Our small school shares facilities with Briercrest College and Seminary on a campus of 900 students. [View profile] |
$3,075 to $32,155 User reviews (21) |
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King's-Edgehill School (est. 1788)
King's-Edgehill School offers programs for grades six to 12 in Windsor, Nova Scotia. Its average class size is 15 students. [View profile] |
$18,250 to $57,200 |
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Luther College High School (est. 1913)
Luther students, from many different social and cultural backgrounds, have the opportunity to be part of a tightly woven community of students, parents, teachers, staff, and alumni. [View profile] |
$7,550 to $32,310 User reviews (3) |
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The Sacred Heart School of Montreal (est. 1861)
Since 1861, The Sacred Heart School of Montreal, the city’s only all girls English Catholic high school, has been graduating exceptional leaders. [View profile] |
$16,795 to $52,814 |
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Léman Manhattan Preparatory School (est. 2010)
Nestled in the heart of downtown New York City, Léman Manhattan delivers academic excellence that inspires for a lifetime. [View profile] |
not provided |
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A+ World Academy (est. 2015)
A+ World Academy is a boarding school on a Ship. Up to 60 students in grades 11 and 12 live and work the 90 year old Norwegian Tall Ship, ‘Sørlandet’, while they take AP classes and travel the world. [View profile] |
EUR €62,900 User reviews (1) |
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Kells Academy (est. 1978)
Kells Academy is a private school in Montreal which offers Kindergarten to grade 11. Its average class size is 15 students. We offer boarding facilities & separate Elementary,Middle and High School campuses. [View profile] |
$14,550 to $37,000 |
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Ashbury College (est. 1891)
This traditional private school in Ottawa, Ontario offers Grades 4 to 12 with 100 boarding and 600 day school students. Tuition is from $23,600 to $58,300. [View profile] |
$26,300 to $64,700 |
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Admiral Farragut Academy (est. 1933)
Admiral Farragut Academy is located in beautiful, sunny, St. Petersburg, Florida, USA. Farragut is a military style school offering unique classes such as Aviation, Scuba, and AP Capstone. [View profile] |
US $51,800 |
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Landmark East School (est. 1979)
Landmark East School offers exceptional programming for LD students from grade 3 to 12. The average class size is 5 students. [View profile] |
$27,900 to $64,900 |
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Rutherford Private School & Daycare
Rutherford Private School creates an atmosphere of academic excellence, and develops students with a love of learning that provides sound preparation for higher education. [View profile] |
$9,900 to $29,000 |
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Fulford Academy (est. 2002)
Fulford Academy is a day/boarding school in Brockville, Ontario, offering programs for grade 6-12. The average student/teacher ratio is 7:1, and STEM + Arts is the core of our Academic Programming. [View profile] |
$14,120 to $29,590 /semester |
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Pensionnat du Saint-Nom-de-Marie (est. 1905)
École secondaire francophone privée pour jeunes filles située à Outremont, Qc. Les frais de scolarité sont de 4 500 $ par année. Elle offre les profils Éducation internationale, Danse-études et Musique-études. [View profile] |
$4,500 to $10,700 |
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Ridley College (est. 1889)
Ridley College is an acclaimed co-educational 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. [View profile] |
$16,500 to $65,700 |
