Toronto is home to some of the best high schools in Canada, offering diverse academic programs, strong extracurricular opportunities, and pathways to post-secondary success.
Whether students seek specialized arts programs, STEM-focused curricula, or faith-based education, Toronto provides a variety of excellent secondary school options. This guide highlights some of the top-performing high schools in the city.
Table of Contents:
- Al-Manarat Islamic School
- John Fraser Secondary School
- St. Marcellinus Secondary School
- ISNA High School
- St. Joseph Secondary School
- St. Francis Xavier Secondary School
- The Woodlands School
- St. Paul Secondary School
- Lorne Park Secondary School
- Holy Family Catholic Secondary School
1. Al-Manarat Islamic School
Al-Manarat Islamic School is a private faith-based institution that integrates Islamic studies with the Ontario curriculum. It emphasizes strong academic achievement alongside character development and religious teachings. The school is known for its STEM programs, language courses, and leadership initiatives that prepare students for university and careers in diverse fields.
The school offers a rigorous academic curriculum with a focus on sciences, mathematics, English, and social studies, while also providing Islamic studies and Quranic recitation. Extracurricular activities include debate clubs, student government, sports teams, and leadership training programs that allow students to develop key life skills.
Admission involves an application process that includes academic transcripts, an entrance interview, and proof of Islamic faith for students enrolling in religious studies. Financial aid may be available for qualifying families.
2. John Fraser Secondary School
John Fraser Secondary School is a highly ranked public high school known for its strong academic performance, Advanced Placement (AP) courses, and robust extracurricular offerings. The school provides excellent programs in sciences, mathematics, and business, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education.
With state-of-the-art science labs, modern classrooms, and access to advanced technology, John Fraser ensures that students receive top-tier education. The school also offers career counseling and university preparation workshops to help students transition successfully into post-secondary institutions.
Enrollment is primarily based on residency within the school’s designated boundary. Students interested in AP courses must meet academic prerequisites.
3. St. Marcellinus Secondary School
St. Marcellinus is a Catholic high school known for its academic excellence, athletics, and faith-based education. The school offers AP courses, extensive sports programs, and leadership opportunities that develop well-rounded students.
St. Marcellinus has one of the strongest athletics programs in Mississauga, offering teams in football, basketball, soccer, and track and field. The school promotes teamwork and discipline through extracurriculars such as student council, drama clubs, and social justice initiatives.
Admission is primarily open to students within the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board (DPCDSB) boundary. Special programs may require an additional application process.
4. ISNA High School
ISNA High School is a private Islamic school that provides a rigorous academic curriculum combined with religious studies. The school emphasizes leadership, critical thinking, and community involvement, helping students prepare for university and professional careers.
The school incorporates leadership training and entrepreneurship courses to prepare students for future careers. It also provides Islamic education, focusing on ethics, Quranic studies, and community service.
Prospective students must submit academic records, complete an entrance assessment, and participate in an interview. Tuition fees apply, and financial aid may be available.
5. St. Joseph Secondary School
St. Joseph Secondary School is a well-regarded Catholic high school offering a strong academic program alongside religious education. The school provides specialized programs in arts, business, and STEM fields, fostering intellectual and personal growth.
The school offers an enriched arts program, including visual arts, music, and drama. In addition, there are co-op education opportunities for students seeking hands-on experience in their chosen fields.
Enrollment is open to students within the DPCDSB boundary. Certain programs may require additional applications and academic assessments.
6. St. Francis Xavier Secondary School
St. Francis Xavier is a top-performing Catholic high school offering an enriched academic curriculum, including AP courses and specialty programs in business and technology. The school also has a strong focus on leadership and community involvement.
The school offers extensive guidance and career counseling services to assist students with university applications and scholarship opportunities. St. Francis Xavier has strong connections with universities and employers, providing students with a head start on career planning.
Admission is based on residence within the Catholic school board’s designated area. AP and specialized programs may have extra academic requirements.
7. The Woodlands School
The Woodlands School is a unique public high school offering a specialized gifted program and an International Baccalaureate (IB) program. It is well-known for its high academic standards, student achievements, and strong extracurricular activities.
The school offers an enriched gifted program for academically advanced students. The IB program provides a global perspective and rigorous coursework that prepares students for top universities.
General enrollment is based on catchment areas, while entry into the gifted and IB programs requires applications, academic testing, and interviews.
8. St. Paul Secondary School
St. Paul Secondary School is a Catholic institution that excels in both academics and extracurricular activities. The school offers various Advanced Placement courses, a strong arts program, and leadership opportunities.
St. Paul integrates Catholic values into its education while also offering leadership training, community service programs, and strong athletic teams.
Admission is primarily open to students within the Catholic school board’s jurisdiction, with additional applications required for specialized programs.
9. Lorne Park Secondary School
Lorne Park Secondary School is a top-ranked public high school known for its strong academic performance, extensive athletic programs, and leadership initiatives. It offers AP courses and specialized programs in STEM, business, and the arts.
Lorne Park has a strong reputation for its competitive athletics programs, offering teams in hockey, swimming, volleyball, and more. The school fosters school spirit and student engagement through a wide range of extracurriculars.
General admission is based on residential zoning, while AP and specialty programs require additional applications and academic prerequisites.
10. Holy Family Catholic Secondary School
Holy Family Catholic Secondary School is a French Catholic high school that provides students with a bilingual education while maintaining high academic standards. The school offers a rich curriculum, leadership development, and opportunities for cultural engagement.
The school promotes French language proficiency and offers programs in arts, sciences, and business, ensuring students are well-prepared for post-secondary studies in both English and French.
Students must demonstrate proficiency in French and be part of the Catholic school system. An application process and interview may be required for specialized programs.
Conclusion
Mississauga offers a variety of outstanding high schools that cater to different academic interests, extracurricular strengths, and faith-based values. Whether students are looking for AP courses, IB programs, Catholic or Islamic education, or strong STEM and arts programs, these schools provide excellent learning environments. Understanding the admission requirements and unique features of each school allows students and parents to make informed decisions for a successful high school experience.