BEST SCHOOLS IN TORONTO: CABBAGETOWN AND RIVERDALE
In this guide, we take a closer look at some of the best schools in Toronto: Cabbagetown and Riverdale, two of the city’s most family-friendly neighborhoods.
When it comes to choosing a home in Toronto, families with school-aged children often place the quality of local schools at the top of their priority list. Whether you’re seeking public or private education, these neighbourhoods offer exceptional options to help nurture your child’s academic and personal growth.
PUBLIC SCHOOLS IN CABBAGETOWN
1. SPRUCECOURT PUBLIC SCHOOL (JK-8)
Located at 70 Spruce Street, this vibrant school serves Cabbagetown North and part of Regent Park. Firstly, Sprucecourt emphasizes core skills like literacy and numeracy, while also encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving. Known for its inclusive environment and rich cultural diversity, Spruce Court provides a welcoming space for all students.
2. WINCHESTER JUNIOR AND SENIOR PUBLIC SCHOOL (JK-8)
A community cornerstone since 1874, Winchester Public School offers both French immersion and regular academic tracks. With its deep integration with the community creates a unique, supportive environment for students. While it boasts strong literacy programs, it is actively working to improve math scores by Grade 6.
HIGH SCHOOLS IN CABBAGETOWN
1. ROSEDALE HEIGHTS SCHOOL OF THE ARTS
Located at 711 Bloor Street East, Rosedale Heights specializes in Visual Arts, Music, Dance, and Drama. With its competitive admission process, the school balances creative programs with strong academics, making it an excellent choice for students passionate about the arts.
2. JARVIS COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE
Found at 495 Jarvis Street, Jarvis Collegiate offers a range of academic programs, including advanced placement courses. Moreover, the school has a strong academic reputation and a diverse array of extracurricular activities, allowing students to pursue both academic excellence and personal growth.
PRIVATE SCHOOLS NEAR CABBAGETOWN
1. ST. MICHAEL'S CHOIR SCHOOL
Situated at 66 Bond Street, St. Michael’s combines rigorous academics with exceptional musical training. Moreover, this faith-based institution, affiliated with the Archdiocese of Toronto, emphasizes both academic excellence and musical performance, fostering a holistic approach to education.
2. BRANKSOME HALL
Located at 10 Elm Avenue, Branksome Hall is an all-girls independent school offering Junior Kindergarten through Grade 12. With its International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, Branksome emphasizes global citizenship and leadership, making it a hub for young women aspiring to make an impact on the world.
3. MONTCREST SCHOOL (JK-8)
Situated at 658 Broadview Avenue, in the nearby Riverdale neighbourhood, Montcrest School offers individualized learning with a student-centered approach. It promotes inquiry-based education that encourages critical thinking and inclusivity, providing a nurturing environment for young learners.
4. THE YORK SCHOOL
With two locations along Yonge Street, The York School is a co-educational independent institution offering the IB program from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12. In fact, it was the first English-speaking school in Canada to offer the full IB program, preparing students for a globalized world.
5. DE LA SALLE COLLEGE "OAKLANDS"
Located at 131 Farnham Avenue, De La Salle is an independent, co-educational Catholic school for Grades 5-12. It emphasizes academic excellence alongside character development, preparing students to be well-rounded individuals.
PUBLIC SCHOOLS IN RIVERDALE
1. WITHROW AVENUE JUNIOR PUBLIC SCHOOL (JK-6)
Located at 25 Bain Avenue, Withrow Avenue offers both English and Early French Immersion programs. The school is known for its well-rounded education, community integration, and emphasis on both academics and personal development.
2. FRANKLAND COMMUNITY SCHOOL (JK-6)
Located at 816 Logan Avenue, Frankland offers Early French Immersion and English programs. The school emphasizes academic excellence, while fostering a sense of community involvement and engagement.
3. PAPE AVENUE PUBLIC SCHOOL (JK-6)
Situated at 220 Langley Avenue, Pape Avenue Public School highlights active learning and a focus on the arts. Furthermore, the school’s diverse student body reflects the vibrant cultural backgrounds of the community.
4. JACKMAN AVENUE JUNIOR PUBLIC SCHOOL (JK-6)
At 79 Jackman Avenue, Jackman Avenue Public School offers both English and Early French Immersion streams. While it is known for its commitment to environmental sustainability, the school also has a reputation for strong academic performance, particularly in English literacy.
HIGH SCHOOLS IN RIVERDALE
1. RIVERDALE COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE
Located at 1094 Gerrard Street East, Riverdale Collegiate offers a broad range of academic and extracurricular programs. In fact, it’s known for its modern facilities and community spirit, making it a favorite among local families.
2. DANFORTH COLLEGIATE AND TECHNICAL INSTITUTE
Situated at 800 Danforth Avenue, Danforth Collegiate specializes in mathematics, science, and technology. Additionally, it offers co-op education and various specialized programs, preparing students for both academic and career success.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT SCHOOL:
FACTORS TO CONSIDER
Selecting the right school is about more than just academic rankings. Here are several key factors to consider when making your decision:
- Academic quality
- School environment
- Extracurricular activities
- School culture and community
- Location and logistics
- Support services
- Safety and well-being
- School reputation
- Future opportunities
- Personal fit
CONCLUSION
By thoroughly researching and considering all factors, you can find the perfect match from the best schools in Toronto: Cabbagetown and Riverdale, supporting your child’s educational journey. Moreover, and most importantly, these neighbourhoods offer diverse and top-quality education options that will help your child thrive both academically and personally.
If you’re interested in moving to one of these neighbourhoods, our team at Castillo Pardo Group can help. We’re experts in the Toronto real estate market and can provide you with personalized guidance to make your move a success.