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:
- St. Michael’s Choir School
- York Mills Collegiate Institute
- Ursula Franklin Academy
- Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute
- Leaside High School
- Cardinal Carter Academy for the Arts
- Malvern Collegiate Institute
- Bishop Allen Academy
- North Toronto Collegiate Institute
- William Lyon Mackenzie Collegiate Institute
1. St. Michael’s Choir School
St. Michael’s Choir School is a private Catholic school in Toronto, Ontario, offering a unique blend of academic excellence and choral music education for boys from Grades 3 to 12. Founded in 1937, the school is affiliated with St. Michael’s Cathedral Basilica and is recognized for its rigorous curriculum and exceptional music program. Students receive both a strong academic foundation and professional-level musical training, making St. Michael’s Choir School one of the few institutions of its kind in North America.
The school follows the Ontario curriculum while integrating an extensive choral and instrumental music program. Students participate in daily rehearsals, music theory classes, and liturgical performances, developing advanced musical skills alongside their academic studies. The music program emphasizes discipline, teamwork, and artistic expression, fostering both personal and intellectual growth.
With small class sizes and a supportive learning environment, St. Michael’s Choir School encourages students to excel in their studies while deepening their faith through music. The school offers a balanced education that includes science, mathematics, humanities, and languages, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for post-secondary education. Many students continue their studies at prestigious universities across Canada and internationally.
Beyond academics and music, the school promotes character development, leadership, and service. Students regularly perform at religious services, community events, and international tours, gaining valuable experience in performance and cultural exchange. The school’s emphasis on faith and values helps students cultivate integrity, responsibility, and a strong sense of community.
Admission to St. Michael’s Choir School is selective, requiring an academic assessment and a musical audition. Applicants must demonstrate both academic ability and musical potential. The school fosters close collaboration between educators, families, and the church to support student success.
Graduates of St. Michael’s Choir School often pursue careers in music, academia, business, and the sciences. Many alumni have become accomplished musicians, composers, and educators, contributing to Canada’s rich musical heritage. For families seeking an education that combines academic rigor with world-class choral training, St. Michael’s Choir School offers a distinguished and transformative experience.
2. York Mills Collegiate Institute
York Mills Collegiate Institute (YMCI) is a public secondary school in Toronto, Ontario, serving students from Grades 9 to 12. Part of the Toronto District School Board, the school is known for its strong academic programs, diverse student body, and commitment to preparing students for post-secondary education. YMCI offers a balanced curriculum that emphasizes both academic excellence and personal development.
The school provides a wide range of courses, including Advanced Placement (AP) options, allowing students to challenge themselves and earn university credits while still in high school. York Mills Collegiate places a strong focus on mathematics, science, humanities, and the arts, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education. Additionally, specialized programs in business, technology, and computer science help students develop skills relevant to modern careers.
With a student-centered approach, YMCI supports individual growth through small class sizes, academic support services, and extracurricular activities. The school offers numerous clubs, leadership programs, and athletic teams, giving students opportunities to engage in community service, teamwork, and creative pursuits. Competitive sports teams and performing arts programs further enrich student life.
The school’s facilities include modern science labs, a library, a gymnasium, and technology-equipped classrooms. These resources enhance the learning experience and provide students with hands-on opportunities in their studies. York Mills Collegiate also emphasizes global awareness and encourages students to think critically about contemporary social and environmental issues.
Admission to YMCI is open to students within its designated catchment area, though specialized programs may have additional application requirements. The school fosters a supportive learning environment where teachers, students, and families work together to achieve academic and personal success.
Graduates of York Mills Collegiate Institute frequently attend top universities across Canada and internationally. Many pursue careers in fields such as business, engineering, medicine, and the arts. With its strong academic foundation, diverse extracurricular opportunities, and focus on leadership development, YMCI provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary for future success.
3. Ursula Franklin Academy
Ursula Franklin Academy (UFA) is a specialized public high school in Toronto, Ontario, known for its academically rigorous curriculum and focus on interdisciplinary learning. As part of the Toronto District School Board, UFA offers an enriched educational experience for students in Grades 9 to 12, emphasizing inquiry-based learning, collaboration, and critical thinking. The school follows a non-semestered system, allowing students to engage in a more continuous and integrated approach to their studies.
The curriculum at UFA is designed to challenge students while fostering a strong sense of community and social responsibility. Courses are structured to encourage problem-solving, innovation, and real-world applications of knowledge. The school places a particular emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), while also offering a robust humanities and arts program. Leadership, civic engagement, and sustainability are key themes woven into the academic experience.
UFA maintains a small student population, which allows for a personalized learning environment and close interactions between students and teachers. The school does not offer traditional athletics programs, but instead provides an extensive selection of clubs, intramural sports, and extracurricular activities. Students are encouraged to participate in initiatives such as student government, social justice projects, and environmental advocacy, reflecting the school’s commitment to fostering engaged and responsible citizens.
The school’s facilities support hands-on learning, with modern science labs, technology-equipped classrooms, and collaborative spaces for group projects. UFA also integrates experiential learning opportunities, including co-op placements and partnerships with local organizations, giving students practical experience in various fields.
Admission to Ursula Franklin Academy is competitive, with a selective application process that includes a review of academic performance, a personal statement, and an interview. The school looks for students who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, self-motivation, and a commitment to the school’s values of equity, inclusion, and social justice.
Graduates of UFA are well-prepared for post-secondary education, with many attending top universities across Canada and abroad. Alumni often pursue careers in fields such as science, engineering, law, and the arts. With its strong academic foundation, student-centered approach, and commitment to social responsibility, Ursula Franklin Academy provides a unique and enriching high school experience for students in Toronto.
4. Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute
Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute (LPCI) is a public secondary school in Toronto, Ontario, serving students from Grades 9 to 12. Part of the Toronto District School Board, LPCI is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant extracurricular activities, and commitment to student success. The school has a long-standing reputation for excellence, attracting students who seek a challenging and well-rounded high school experience.
LPCI offers a rigorous curriculum with a variety of courses in mathematics, science, humanities, and the arts. Advanced Placement (AP) courses are available for students looking to challenge themselves and earn university credits while still in high school. The school also provides specialized programs in business, technology, and the performing arts, ensuring students have diverse learning opportunities. A strong emphasis on critical thinking and problem-solving prepares students for post-secondary education and future careers.
Beyond academics, LPCI fosters a dynamic school culture through its wide range of extracurricular activities. Students can participate in leadership programs, student government, and numerous clubs, including debate, music, drama, and environmental initiatives. The school also has a strong athletic program, with competitive teams in sports such as basketball, soccer, and track and field. These opportunities help students develop teamwork, leadership, and communication skills.
The school’s facilities include modern science labs, a library, a gymnasium, and performance spaces for music and drama. LPCI encourages students to engage in experiential learning, community service, and co-curricular projects that enhance their educational experience. The school values student involvement and fosters a sense of community through school-wide events and initiatives.
Admission to LPCI is based on residence within the school’s designated catchment area, though students may apply for specialized programs with additional requirements. The school maintains strong relationships between teachers, students, and families to support academic achievement and personal growth.
Graduates of Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute go on to study at top universities across Canada and internationally, pursuing careers in fields such as business, engineering, law, medicine, and the arts. With its strong academic foundation, engaging extracurricular opportunities, and supportive learning environment, LPCI provides students with the skills and knowledge needed for future success.
5. Leaside High School
Leaside High School is a public secondary school in Toronto, Ontario, serving students from Grades 9 to 12. Part of the Toronto District School Board, the school is known for its strong academic programs, competitive athletics, and active student community. Leaside has built a reputation for excellence, attracting students who seek both academic rigor and extracurricular engagement.
The school offers a wide range of academic courses, including Advanced Placement (AP) options, allowing students to earn university credits while in high school. Leaside has strong programs in mathematics, science, humanities, and the arts, as well as specialized courses in business, technology, and computer science. The school places a particular emphasis on preparing students for post-secondary education, with many graduates attending top universities across Canada and internationally.
Beyond academics, Leaside High School has a vibrant extracurricular scene. The school’s athletic teams compete in various sports, including basketball, soccer, hockey, and track and field. Leaside also offers a range of clubs and student-led organizations, including debate, robotics, music, and environmental initiatives. These opportunities help students develop leadership, teamwork, and creative problem-solving skills.
The school’s facilities include modern science labs, a library, a gymnasium, and technology-equipped classrooms. Students have access to resources that support hands-on learning and collaborative projects. The school also encourages participation in community service and experiential learning programs, helping students develop a broader understanding of global and local issues.
Admission to Leaside High School is primarily based on residence within the school’s designated catchment area, although some specialized programs may have additional application requirements. The school fosters a supportive and inclusive learning environment, with strong relationships between students, teachers, and families.
Graduates of Leaside High School go on to pursue careers in fields such as business, engineering, medicine, law, and the arts. With its strong academic foundation, diverse extracurricular offerings, and commitment to student success, Leaside provides a well-rounded high school experience for students in Toronto.
6. Cardinal Carter Academy for the Arts
Cardinal Carter Academy for the Arts (CCAA) is a specialized Catholic high school in Toronto, Ontario, offering students from Grades 7 to 12 an education that integrates the arts with strong academic programs. Part of the Toronto Catholic District School Board, the school is known for its exceptional arts curriculum, which includes dance, drama, instrumental and vocal music, and visual arts. CCAA provides a faith-based learning environment where students can develop their artistic talents while receiving a well-rounded education.
The school follows the Ontario curriculum, with a focus on both academic excellence and artistic expression. Students take core subjects such as mathematics, science, English, and social sciences alongside intensive training in their chosen art discipline. The arts program emphasizes creativity, technical skill, and performance, preparing students for post-secondary studies in the arts and beyond.
With a selective admission process, prospective students must audition for their chosen arts program in addition to meeting academic requirements. This process ensures that students are passionate about the arts and committed to developing their skills. Small class sizes and a collaborative atmosphere allow for personalized instruction and mentorship from experienced educators and professional artists.
CCAA offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including school productions, music ensembles, and community performances. The school regularly hosts showcases and performances that allow students to gain real-world experience in the arts. Leadership opportunities and student-run initiatives further contribute to a dynamic and engaging school culture.
The school’s facilities include dedicated dance and drama studios, music rehearsal spaces, and visual arts classrooms, providing students with the resources they need to excel in their disciplines. A strong connection to Toronto’s arts community also allows students to participate in workshops, masterclasses, and partnerships with professional artists and organizations.
Graduates of Cardinal Carter Academy for the Arts go on to study at top universities and arts conservatories across Canada and internationally. Many pursue careers in the performing and visual arts, while others apply the skills they develop at CCAA to fields such as education, business, and media. With its strong academic foundation, faith-based values, and commitment to artistic excellence, Cardinal Carter Academy for the Arts provides a unique and enriching high school experience for students passionate about the arts.
7. Malvern Collegiate Institute
Malvern Collegiate Institute is a public secondary school in Toronto, Ontario, serving students from Grades 9 to 12. Established in 1903, it is one of the city’s oldest high schools and has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence, athletic achievements, and strong community involvement. As part of the Toronto District School Board, Malvern Collegiate offers a rigorous curriculum that prepares students for post-secondary education and future careers.
The school provides a diverse range of academic programs, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses that allow students to earn university credits while still in high school. Strong programs in mathematics, science, humanities, and the arts ensure that students receive a well-rounded education. Malvern also offers specialized courses in business, technology, and French immersion, catering to various student interests and career aspirations.
Extracurricular activities play a significant role in student life at Malvern. The school has a strong athletics program, with competitive teams in sports such as hockey, basketball, soccer, and track and field. Malvern’s athletic teams, known as the “Black Knights,” have a proud history of success at regional and provincial levels. In addition, students can participate in various clubs, including music ensembles, drama productions, debate, and environmental initiatives, fostering leadership and teamwork skills.
Malvern Collegiate’s facilities include modern science labs, a library, a gymnasium, and dedicated arts spaces. The school emphasizes experiential learning, encouraging students to engage in community service, co-op placements, and enrichment opportunities that extend beyond the classroom.
Admission to Malvern Collegiate is primarily based on residence within the designated catchment area, although students interested in specialized programs may need to meet additional requirements. The school fosters a supportive learning environment, with a strong sense of school spirit and a tradition of academic and extracurricular excellence.
Graduates of Malvern Collegiate Institute go on to attend top universities across Canada and internationally, pursuing careers in fields such as business, science, engineering, law, and the arts. With its strong academic foundation, rich extracurricular offerings, and engaged student community, Malvern provides a well-rounded and dynamic high school experience in Toronto.
8. Bishop Allen Academy
Bishop Allen Academy is a Catholic secondary school in Toronto, Ontario, serving students from Grades 9 to 12. Part of the Toronto Catholic District School Board, the school is known for its strong academic programs, commitment to faith-based education, and diverse extracurricular opportunities. Bishop Allen emphasizes academic excellence, leadership, and community service, preparing students for post-secondary education and future careers.
The school offers a variety of academic pathways, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses that allow students to earn university credits while in high school. Strong programs in mathematics, science, humanities, and the arts provide students with a well-rounded education. The school also offers specialized programs in business, technology, and French immersion, catering to different student interests and career goals. Religious education is an integral part of the curriculum, reinforcing Catholic values and ethical decision-making.
Bishop Allen Academy promotes student involvement through a wide range of extracurricular activities. The school has competitive athletic teams in sports such as basketball, soccer, volleyball, and track and field. Students can also participate in clubs, music ensembles, drama productions, and leadership programs. Community service is a core component of student life, with many opportunities for volunteering and social justice initiatives.
The school’s facilities include modern science labs, a library, a chapel, and technology-equipped classrooms. Bishop Allen integrates experiential learning opportunities, encouraging students to engage in co-op programs, mentorship initiatives, and hands-on projects that enhance their academic experience. The school fosters a supportive learning environment where students develop independence, confidence, and a strong work ethic.
Admission to Bishop Allen Academy is open to students who meet the Catholic school board’s requirements, including proof of Catholic baptism. Some specialized programs may have additional application criteria. The school maintains strong connections with families and the local parish, reinforcing a collaborative approach to education.
Graduates of Bishop Allen Academy continue their studies at top universities across Canada and internationally, pursuing careers in fields such as business, engineering, healthcare, law, and the arts. With its academic rigor, faith-based values, and vibrant student community, Bishop Allen Academy provides a well-rounded and enriching high school experience in Toronto.
9. North Toronto Collegiate Institute
North Toronto Collegiate Institute (NTCI) is a public secondary school in Toronto, Ontario, serving students from Grades 9 to 12. As part of the Toronto District School Board, NTCI is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant arts and athletics, and engaged student community. The school has a long-standing reputation for excellence and consistently prepares students for post-secondary education and future careers.
NTCI offers a challenging curriculum with a variety of academic pathways, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses, which allow students to earn university credits while in high school. The school provides strong programs in mathematics, science, humanities, and the arts, with specialized courses in business, technology, and French. The academic environment emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership development.
Extracurricular activities are an essential part of student life at NTCI. The school has competitive athletic teams in sports such as basketball, soccer, volleyball, and track and field. The music program is particularly well-regarded, with award-winning ensembles, including concert bands, jazz bands, and choirs. Students can also participate in clubs such as debate, robotics, drama, and environmental initiatives, fostering creativity and teamwork.
The school’s modern facilities include state-of-the-art science labs, a well-equipped library, a gymnasium, and performing arts spaces. In addition, the campus features innovative technology and collaborative learning spaces that enhance the educational experience. The school encourages experiential learning, offering co-op placements and enrichment programs that provide students with real-world skills.
Admission to North Toronto Collegiate Institute is based on residence within the school’s designated catchment area, though some specialized programs may have additional requirements. The school fosters a strong sense of community, with teachers, students, and families working together to support academic achievement and personal growth.
Graduates of NTCI regularly attend top universities in Canada and abroad, pursuing careers in fields such as business, engineering, healthcare, law, and the arts. With its strong academic foundation, diverse extracurricular offerings, and dynamic school culture, North Toronto Collegiate Institute provides students with a well-rounded and enriching high school experience.
10. William Lyon Mackenzie Collegiate Institute
William Lyon Mackenzie Collegiate Institute (WLMCI) is a public secondary school in Toronto, Ontario, serving students from Grades 9 to 12. Part of the Toronto District School Board, the school is known for its strong academic programs, particularly in mathematics, science, and technology. WLMCI consistently ranks among the top public high schools in Ontario, attracting students who seek academic rigor and opportunities for enrichment.
The school offers a diverse curriculum, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses that allow students to earn university credits while in high school. One of its most distinguished programs is the MaCS (Math, Science, and Computer Science) program, which provides an accelerated and enriched curriculum for students with strong abilities in STEM fields. In addition to its academic strengths, WLMCI offers a wide range of courses in business, the arts, and humanities, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education.
Extracurricular activities play a significant role in student life at WLMCI. The school has competitive athletic teams in sports such as basketball, volleyball, soccer, and track and field. Students can also participate in various clubs, including debate, robotics, coding, music ensembles, and student government. The school places a strong emphasis on leadership, innovation, and teamwork, providing numerous opportunities for students to engage in research projects, competitions, and community service.
The school’s facilities include modern science labs, a well-equipped library, computer labs, a gymnasium, and collaborative learning spaces. WLMCI integrates experiential learning through co-op programs, internships, and partnerships with post-secondary institutions, giving students valuable hands-on experience in their chosen fields.
Admission to WLMCI is primarily based on residence within the school’s catchment area, though the MaCS program has a selective application process that includes entrance assessments. The school fosters a challenging yet supportive learning environment, with dedicated teachers and resources that help students achieve their academic and personal goals.
Graduates of William Lyon Mackenzie Collegiate Institute frequently attend top universities in Canada and internationally, often pursuing careers in engineering, technology, medicine, business, and law. With its strong academic reputation, specialized programs, and active student community, WLMCI provides an enriching high school experience that prepares students for success in higher education and beyond.
Conclusion
Toronto’s best high schools offer a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities to meet the diverse needs of students. Whether students are looking for specialized arts programs, STEM-focused education, faith-based learning, or strong university preparation, these schools provide excellent options. By understanding the strengths of each institution, students and families can make informed decisions to ensure a rewarding and successful high school experience.