Best High Schools in Toronto

Toronto is the home to some of the best high schools in Canada. If you have sons or daughters that need to start their high-school courses, make sure to gain knowledge about top-level high schools in Toronto. Then you can make easier choices.

In this article, I will introduce six best high schools in Toronto.

St. Michael’s Choir School

St. Michael’s Choir School is a private high school for boys in the Garden District, Downtown Toronto. The administration and affairs of the school are done by the Pontifical Institute of Sacred Music, The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Toronto, and the Toronto Catholic District School Board.

Students should apply and have an audition. However, unlike other public schools, students need to pay a set tuition fee for the choral program.

The unique factor about this school is that it trains students to be independent and vast to be knowledgeable in the field of music.

Ursula Franklin Academy

Ursula Franklin Academy is a very well-known high school in the High Park Neighbourhood of Toronto. The academy is a small community of learners along with a Canadian high school in which science and technology are the main parts.

Teachers in Ursula Franklin Academy use a rigorous liberal arts-focused curriculum to help students be independent learners.

The academy accepts students with admission and enrolls only 500 students annually. However, living in the same neighbourhood is not a prerequisite for admission.

Cardinal Carter Academy for the Arts

Cardinal Carter Academy for the Arts is a public art high school located in North York. This Toronto high school accepts students only through auditions.

The interesting point about this school is that they accept students throughout the academic year when it’s necessary or whenever there is a space in the desired art class.

Leaside High School

Established in 1945 by the Leaside Board of Education, Leaside High School is a well-known high school in Canada.

Located in the Leaside neighbourhood at the corner of Bayview and Eglinton Avenues, the school is well-known for imparting knowledge to students.

Besides, the school enrolls 1000 students with a robust curriculum for students to learn languages.

Earl Haig Secondary School

Earl Haig Secondary School is another top high school with over 2,000 students in Toronto.

This Toronto high school is also well-known for its auditioned art program called the Claude Watson Arts Program. The program offers education in Drama, Dance, Music, Visual Arts, and Film Arts for the kids.

The staff in Earl Haig Secondary School are highly professional and help students to participate in various extracurricular activities and give them quality academic teachings.

Father John Redmond Catholic School

The Father John Redmond Catholic Secondary School and Regional Arts Centre is a very popular high school in Toronto located in the New Toronto, Etobicoke.

The institution was first operated as a regional art school by the Toronto Catholic District School Board. One of the main fundamentals of the school is to create a rich catholic environment. Being faithful to catholic makes learning in this school easier and more delightful.

The institution participates in Sears Drama Festival annually, along with other extracurricular activities such as public speaking, yearbook, debating, school newspaper and journals, language clubs, and many more.

North Toronto Collegiate Institute

North Toronto Collegiate Institute (NTCI) is consistently ranked among the best high schools in Toronto due to its strong academic performance, well-rounded extracurricular activities, and supportive learning environment. Located in the North Toronto area, NTCI has a long-standing reputation for producing high-achieving students and offering a vibrant student experience that prepares graduates for post-secondary success.

Academic Excellence

As one of the top high schools in Toronto, North Toronto Collegiate Institute is known for its strong academic programs. The school offers a wide range of courses, including Advanced Placement (AP) programs, allowing students to earn university-level credits while still in high school. NTCI’s academic rigor is matched by its focus on fostering independent thinking, critical analysis, and leadership skills, giving students a competitive edge when applying to universities both in Canada and abroad.

Diverse Extracurricular Programs

NTCI is celebrated not only for its academics but also for its extensive extracurricular activities. From athletics to arts, clubs, and student leadership, NTCI offers opportunities for students to engage in a well-rounded high school experience. The school boasts competitive teams in sports like basketball, soccer, and swimming, as well as strong music and drama programs. NTCI’s music ensembles, in particular, are highly regarded and frequently participate in competitions.

Strong Community and Supportive Environment

One of the reasons NTCI is considered one of the best high schools in Toronto is its strong sense of community. Students, staff, and parents work together to create a positive, inclusive atmosphere. The school promotes student well-being through mental health initiatives and leadership programs, ensuring that students feel supported throughout their high school journey.

Historic Legacy and Modern Facilities

Founded in 1912, NTCI has a rich history of academic excellence and community involvement. In 2010, the school moved into a new, state-of-the-art building, providing students with modern classrooms, science labs, and athletic facilities, while maintaining its legacy as a prestigious institution.

Why North Toronto Collegiate Institute Stands Out

• Academic Achievement: With a focus on advanced coursework and university preparation, NTCI consistently produces top-performing students.
• Extracurricular Excellence: The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including strong sports teams and an award-winning music program.
• Supportive Environment: NTCI fosters a positive school culture with strong support systems for student well-being and personal growth.

For families seeking a high-quality education for their children, North Toronto Collegiate Institute is undoubtedly one of the best high schools in Toronto. Its combination of academic excellence, extracurricular opportunities, and a supportive community makes it an ideal choice for students who want to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

If you’re looking for more information about enrolling at NTCI or exploring the top high schools in Toronto, contact the school for details about admissions and programs.

Conclusion

Studying in a high-level high school is an essential point that parents care about. Since Toronto is one of the major hubs of immigrants in Toronto, there are many famous high schools in this area.

Among these schools, the top 6 are introduced. However, since most schools prefer to enroll students from their neighbourhood, it is important for parents to consult an expert Toronto real estate agent to help them find a home near their desired school.