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The Best Public High Schools In Toronto 2025

Whether you're planning on moving your family to Toronto, or are simply moving to a new neighbourhood, here is our list of the best public high schools in Toronto for those planning to relocate Toronto high schools in 2025.

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August 28, 2024
9:07 am

The Best Public High Schools In Toronto

Ursula Franklin Academy

Topping our list of the best public high schools in Toronto is Ursula Franklin Academy. Located in the High Park neighbourhood Downtown Toronto, Ursula Franklin Academy has no feeder schools, and offers admission to middle school students all over Toronto via a lottery system. With priority given to students who live in the City of Toronto–with an “M” postal code. While the school does not provide any specialty courses such as AP, IB, Gifted, French Immersion, or Enriched, students should expect to thrive in a challenging academic environment. Ursula also offers a Wednesday Enrichment Program which is unique in the province. The program offers students hundreds of courses to choose from throughout the year, including Robotics, Debating, Literary Reviews, Yoga, Walking Tours, along with many other skill-based learning, and “out of the box” experiences. As one of the best public high schools in Toronto, approximately 90-95% of Ursula students will attend university within two years of graduation. Enrolment is capped at 500 students.

From the school: “Ursula Franklin Academy is a small community of learners that offers integrated liberal arts and sciences packages at the advanced level, preparing students for academic programs at the post-secondary level. The learning experiences offered at Ursula Franklin Academy will reflect not only the learning expectations identified by the Province and the Toronto District School Board, but also the students’ own interests, developing a sense of responsibility and individual accomplishments. Cross-curricular future-oriented skills such as conflict resolution, computer technology, problem-solving, student leadership, and exposure to international languages will be emphasized.”

Leaside High School

Located in the Leaside neighbourhood in East York, Toronto, Leaside High School has consistently maintained its reputation as one of the best public high schools in Toronto, and all of Ontario for decades. In late 2006, Leaside High was rated “Best Toronto School for Languages” by Toronto Life magazine, featuring courses in French, Spanish, Italian and others. Leaside offers Extended French (ExF), as well as French Immersion (FI) programs. Students in these program can obtain two certificates: The Honours Certificate of Bilingual Studies in French Immersion or Extended French and The Certificate of Bilingual Studies in French Immersion or Extended French. As one of the best public high schools in Toronto Leaside offers its students a variety of clubs, including yearbook, student newspaper, debating and volunteering (ACT), The Robotics & Programming Club, School Website Club, and Stage Crew for those that want to sharpen their tech skills. Stuents can also participate in exchange programs around the world including: Italy, Greece, France, China, Japan, Egypt, Africa, Australia, Peru, and France. The most recent student population count was 1070.

From the school: “Founded in 1945, Leaside continues to maintain a tradition of academic excellence. The size of our student population allows for a caring environment in which staff get to know their students as individuals. We are dedicated to academic achievement and the preparation of our students for post-secondary education and life in a changing society. Leaside offers a semestered program from Grades 9 to 12. Each discipline offers a continuum of skill development to prepare students for a future of lifelong learning. Leaside offers a range of programs for students with diverse interests, including numerous languages, digital photography, forensics and communications technology.”

Avondale Secondary Alternative School

Located in the Newtonbrook neighbourhood in North York, Toronto, Avondale Secondary Alternative School is an alternative public school that makes our list of one of the best public high schools in Toronto. Avondale focuses on preparing students for post-secondary education through small class sizes, and close relationship building between students, and staff. This is done through emphasis on community-wide decision-making, and dialog-based learning in classes. Avondale offers classes in guitar, drama, ceramics, drawing and painting, photography, French, business technology, law, philosophy, advanced functions, calculus and vectors, Canadian history, an introduction to anthropology, sociology, and psychology; biology, chemistry, physical education, gay and lesbian studies, and genocide and crimes against humanity. As one of the best public high schools in Toronto, Avondale employs full time Child and Youth Counselors at the service of their students, who also have access to a Social Worker and Public Health – Mental Health Nurse. The most recent population count was just 42 students.

From the school: “For over 50 years Avondale has offered an alternative vision of secondary education in the public system to students throughout Toronto. Located in a tree-lined, established community, just a ten-minute walk from the Finch Subway Station and a five-minute walk from local bus routes, Avondale is a small, safe, family-like school with an intimate and personal feel. At Avondale, students learn in a small, rigorous academic setting where close working relationships with staff and students are valued and celebrated. Our vision is to create a safe and nurturing learning and teaching environment that supports optimal development and excellence across all domains.”

North Toronto Collegiate Institute

Located in the Yonge and Eglinton Neighbourhood in Midtown, Toronto, North Toronto Collegiate Institute is a prestigious public secondary school offering an impressive array of academic, and extracurricular programs to its students, and an easy inclusion in our list of the best public high schools in Toronto Including 40+ clubs and initiatives, 20+ athletic teams, intra-murals, and leadership opportunities, as well as academic competitions in Robotics, Classics, Latin Certamen, Mathematics, Science, Geography, Business & Accounting, and Spanish. Newly re-built in the fall of 2010, and certified as a “Platinum LEED EcoSchool as one of the best public high schools in Toronto, students can expect to enjoy state-of-the-art facilities coupled with the latest learning technologies.

From the school: “North Toronto C.I. is located near Yonge and Eglinton where it has proudly served the community since 1912. Our school is held in high regard by its graduates and by the community. An important aspect of the school is North Toronto’s well-established reputation as a very strong academic institution. Over 90% of our graduates gain admission to some of the finest and most competitive university programs in the world. Our graduates continually tell us that the rigour and high expectations expected at North Toronto have prepared them well for the future. The school is small enough so that our staff truly knows our students, yet large enough to offer a wide variety of academic courses designed to prepare students for post-secondary education.”

Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute

Located in the Lytton Park neighbourhood in North Toronto, Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute offers a diverse curriculum with a goal of fostering excellence in academics, athletics, and the arts. With a focus on developing young creative leaders, the school encourages, and challenges its students to display their talents outside of the classroom. The school hosts several student clubs, and competitions including: Art Club, Cooking Club, Business competitions, ECO Club, French Film Club, Jewish Culture Club, Photography Club, Gay Straight Alliance, Yearbook Club, University Math, Computer Science, and Science competitions. Students can also enjoy modern computer labs, swimming pool, ice rink, as well as an award winning music ensemble. As one of the best public high schools in Toronto, Lytton offers programs in Extended French (ExF), French Immersion (FI), and a Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) Program in Hospitality. The most recent population count was 1347 students. Many of whom will receive university scholarships, and more than 60% of which are Ontario Scholars.

From the school: “For over eighty years, Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute has been an important part of the North Toronto community. From the school’s inception, Lawrence Park’s teachers, students and families/caregivers have worked together to support academic excellence. The school remains committed to providing a rich and varied program with many opportunities for students to become involved in extra-curricular clubs and activities that help develop strong leadership skills.”

Etobicoke School of the Arts

Located in Etobicoke, Toronto the Etobicoke School of the Arts is distinguished as one of the best public high schools in Toronto, and the oldest arts-focused high school in all of Canada. In 2006 Etobicoke School of the Arts was named the best arts high school in Toronto, as well as being widely recognised as the best arts school in all of Canada. Being a specialised arts school, the admission process is auditioned-based, and students from across the city are welcomed to apply. Etobicoke School of the Arts boasts special interest programs including: dance, drama, film, instrumental music, music theatre or visual arts. Students are committed to a performance schedule which includes music concerts, drama productions, dance shows, film shows, and visual arts exhibitions. The school also supports numerous sports programs based on student interest. Most recently, these included: badminton, dodge ball, floor hockey, indoor soccer, table tennis, touch football, ultimate frisbees, and volleyball. The most recent population count was 950 students.

From the school: “Our academic curriculum offers a full range of course selections in the areas of mathematics, sciences, languages and social sciences, while giving you the flexibility to be fully engaged in your arts major. Students must balance a rigorous workload with numerous extra curricular performances. Students graduate with an Ontario Secondary School Diploma. Our graduates are very successful in gaining admission to post-secondary institutions, including universities, colleges and various arts schools. Over 80 per cent of our students pursue post-secondary studies at the university level in such disciplines as: engineering, music, life sciences, visual arts, economics, philosophy, journalism, drama and film. Etobicoke School of the Arts is very well known in North America. Our well-deserved reputation for excellence draws students from across the province. Our students have also excelled on the Provincial Grade 10 Literacy Test and on the Grade 9 EQAO Results.”

Rosedale Heights School of the Arts

Located in the Rosedale neighbourhood in Downtown Toronto, Rosedale Heights School of the Arts is one of the best public high schools in Toronto, and one of the best arts-focused schools in all of Canada. Named by Maclean’s Magazine in 2005 as one of the top three best special-focused schools in Canada, Rosedale Heights School of the Arts houses state-of-the-art facilities including computer, and science labs, a modern resource centre, video animation equipment, modern gymnasium, dance student, and swimming pool. The school’s mandate is to prepare its students for post-secondary education, and a thriving life in the wider community with an emphasis on the performing, and visual arts. In addition to providing a full range of academic courses, specialised courses include: Musical Theatre, Drama Production, Music Composition, Dance Techniques and Performance, Fashion and Textile Design, Photography, Film Production, Graphic Design, Ceramics, and Creative Writing. The current student population is 1042. Interested students can apply directly via the TDSB centralised program admissions process.

From the school: “We provide students with a unique educational opportunity through challenging academic programs with an emphasis on the performing and visual arts. Our facilities include: science labs, technology and video communications equipment, dance studios, drama studios, music studios, a dark room, visual arts studios, a fitness centre and a swimming pool. Rosedale offers a wide selection of courses in academic and artistic areas of study complemented by numerous opportunities for extra-curricular involvement in student clubs and sports. We are a non-semestered school welcoming students from across the city. We do not audition. All students, regardless of their backgrounds and previous access to the arts, will be considered on the completion of an application package, which includes an arts profile illustrating the applicant’s passion for the arts.”

Malvern Collegiate Institute

Located in the Beaches neighbourhood in Toronto, Malvern Collegiate Institute is one of the oldest high schools in the city of Toronto. With a vibrant Arts department including classes in Drama, Instrumental, Vocal, and Visual Arts, students can expect to experience performances, art shows, productions, and extra-curricular ensembles including the schools renowned marching band which regularly plays in Toronto’s official Santa Claus Parade. As one of the best public high schools in Toronto, Malvern also offers special programs in Extended French (ExF), French Immersion (FI), Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM), as well as Math Science Technology programs for students interested in engineering, coding, robotics, and technology pathways. Students can participate in 30 clubs, and councils in areas ranging from Arts to STEM to Business to clubs that focus on equity and social justice issues. As well as 20 sports teams including: football, hockey, baseball, cross-country, swimming, rugby, track and field, soccer, and volleyball. Senior students also have the opportunity to participate in co-op placements to explore career interests.

From the school: “Welcome to Malvern, one of Toronto’s oldest high schools, serving the Beach community and French Extended/Immersion programs. We offer a wide range of programs in visual arts, drama, music, social justice, and athletics. Our EF/FI programs offer students the opportunity to explore the diverse Francophone cultures of the world, all while developing their proficiency in the language. Malvern teachers model a variety of perspectives and approaches to language learning, making every effort to ensure that all students have the opportunity to be successful. Students also have the chance to participate in French enrichment opportunities, such as speaking in the Concours d’art oratoire or challenging the prestigious DELF competency exam.”

Bloor Collegiate Institute

One of the best public high schools in Toronto temporarily located near the Annex neighbourhood in Downtown Toronto, Bloor Collegiate Institute has historically been in the Differin Grove neighbourhood. The original school, however, was demolished in fall of 2021, with the intention of building a new state-of-the-art high school which is currently scheduled to open in Spring of 2025. With the opening of the new building, we expect the school to further elevate its status as one of the best public high schools in Toronto by continuing to provide a distinct academic experience to qualified students. Admissions are considered via an entrance exam held annually in the fall. Special programs at the school include: Advanced Placement Courses (AP), ICT Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM), Business Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM), Health & Wellness Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM), and TOPS on Bloor: an enriched Math and Sciences program. Students can also participate in over 30 clubs, and 20 school teams, as well as enjoy computer based Visual Arts courses; extensive co-op, peer tutoring, and a wide variety of varsity, and intramural sports. The current student population sits at 814.

From the school: “Bloor Collegiate Institute, established in 1925, has a long tradition of scholarship and post-secondary success for our many graduates. Bloor C.I. offers a full range of courses. Grade 9 students choose from a unique selection of options including a course in skills for success in high school and courses in computer arts, business and music. We offer a variety of enrichment opportunities. Opportunities for senior students include mathematics lectures at the University of Toronto.”

Earl Haig Secondary School

Concluding our list of the best public high schools in Toronto is Earl Haig Secondary School. Located in North York, Toronto, Earl Haig Secondary School is the largest high school in the Toronto District School Board, and the oldest in North York. In addition to the full range of academic courses offered in the secondary school program, the school also hosts the Claude Watson Arts Program: an auditioned arts program open to students from grade 4 to 8. The program invites students with a demonstrated talent in dance, drama, music, screen arts, and visual arts to audition. Once accepted, students can expect to perform in provincial, national, and international competitions. At the secondary-school level, and as one of the best public high schools in Toronto, students can expect special programs in: cooperative education, Computer Studies and ICT, Master Classes, Hairstyling Aesthetics, Culinary Arts, and International Study Programs. Students can participate in 75 clubs, and councils, as well as wide range of sports teams, including rugby, skiing, snowboarding, golf, boys’ and girls’ hockey, ultimate frisbee, and dragon boat. Cultural and arts studies are offered on trips to Greece, Italy and New York. We have established international connections with China, England, France, Holland, Hong Kong, Korea, Japan, Mexico and Taiwan.

From the school: “Earl Haig Secondary School serves a diverse population and is recognized for its academic focus, enthusiasm for learning, lively school spirit and commitment to the arts. Even though Earl Haig has a large student population, the safety and well-being of each student is our highest priority. It also ensures a wide variety of curricular and extra-curricular opportunities for our students, as well as developing their leadership skills. Earl Haig has two related but distinct programs. The Collegiate Program offers high-quality academic programming. The Claude Watson Arts Program offers an enriched art education in Dance, Drama, Music, Film Arts and Visual Arts. Enrolment at Earl Haig is framed by the terms of the Area Review Committee. Contact the Board or the school before assuming automatic acceptance to Earl Haig Secondary School.”

The best high schools in Toronto are not always private schools, and we are indeed fortunate to have access to high quality public education at all levels in our city including Toronto high schools. We hope you’ve found some value in our list of the best public high schools in Toronto we’ve curated for you.

Stayed tuned to our blog, as we’ll explore the best public elementary schools in Toronto in our next post.

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