How do I find the right school for my child?
The beauty of independent schools is that each one is different and offers a variety of programming, extra curricular activities, and teaching styles that will appeal to a wide range of learners. It is, however, important to remember that what works for one child, may not work for others. When considering a school for your child, you need to ensure that the school matches with your child’s interests and aligns with what is important for your family. Ask around – other parents are often more than happy to share their insight on schools and their child’s experiences. We are fortunate to have access to many independent schools here in Toronto, all of which are truly yours to discover!
Where can I start my search?
When researching potential schools to visit or learn more about, the best starting point is to look at the school’s website. Schools are very open about what and who they appeal to, and they will showcase their best attributes on their site. Some websites will have virtual tours, frequently asked questions page, and information about upcoming events at the school for you to learn about and attend. Another great resource is the OurKids.net website. This allows you to compare schools and research their academic programming, clubs, and athletics.
What is the deadline for applying to an independent school?
The deadline for applying to an independent school can vary, but most are by the 1st of December for acceptance to the following school year. This application deadline is firm, and schools will adhere strongly to it. Some schools will have an “early bird” special, offering a reduced application fee.
What is the school’s offer date?
An offer date is the day on which the school will send out a notice of acceptance, offer a spot on the waitlist, or send a notice of decline. Some independent schools will send out offers on a rolling basis (starting in mid-December), others follow a common offer date (the last Friday in February) that has been agreed upon by a group of schools in the Toronto area. The common offer date allows families to have all offers in front of them, so they can make a decision based on a complete set of information. Since this offer date can vary, it is best that you look at the website of the school to which your child is applying to get these details.
What is an Open House at an independent school, and should I attend?
An Open House is a great way for you and your child to tour a school and see all it has to offer. This is a perfect time to ask questions to the admissions staff about the school, meet with some of the teachers, and mingle with the administrative team. It also gives you a glimpse into the vibe of the school and will help you to identify what is important to them. Some Open Houses are self-guided and will allow you to tour independently, visiting curated exhibits or features. Others will connect you with a student who will guide you through the hallways and showcase some of the school’s highlights. Regardless of the format, the Open House is a great place to start when trying to narrow down your search.
How do I apply?
All schools have an online application. You can find it by logging onto the school’s website and then creating a profile on their application portal. You will be asked to complete some general information, upload some report cards (usually June from the previous year, and a November progress report) and any individualized education plans, psychological assessments or reports (i.e. occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, etc.) There will also be a few questions for the parent and the student to complete. This is your opportunity to talk about your child and what kind of learner they are. Something to remember: answer honestly. Schools need to learn everything they can about your child so they can be sure he or she can thrive in their educational environment - no sense in hiding anything!
Is there financial assistance for families when applying to an independent school?
Yes! Many schools offer bursaries to applicants using an organization called Financial Aid for Canadian Students (FACS). To see what schools offer financial assistance, and to learn more about the process, you can visit Apple Financial Services https://www.applefinancialservices.ca/home