Compare Reggio Emilia Approach International Schools in Canada

Richland Academy

Instructs in English

Fees CA$26,500 - 29,000

Type Co-educational

Richland Academy is a private Canadian school offering a unique blend of the Reggio Emilia-inspired approach with the International Baccalaureate continuum. The Junior Campus in Richmond Hill serves students from JK through Grade 8, while a Senior Campus in Aurora will open in 2027, with the full Grade 12 program from 2029 as part of a planned pathway through 2030. The school combines inquiry-based, concept-driven IB learning with student-led exploration in Reggio-inspired spaces such as Ateliers and Piazza. The IB programmes include the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and, from 2029, the Diploma Programme, supported by spaces and practices designed to foster collaboration, agency, and reflective inquiry. Facilities across campuses include flexible classrooms, a full cafeteria, gym, arts and music rooms, and outdoor spaces that encourage creativity and connection. Richland emphasizes holistic development through athletics, arts, service projects, and a strong sense of community among families, staff, and students.

Location

11570 Yonge St, Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada L4E 3N7. The Junior Campus is located in Richmond Hill on Yonge Street near the Oak Ridges Moraine. The Senior Campus will open in Aurora in 2027 to support higher grade levels.

Stages

Junior Campus JK to Grade 8; Senior Years Grades 11 to 12 starting 2029; Senior Campus opening in Aurora in 2027.

Type

Independent school (privately funded).

Additional learning support

Inclusion Policy supports meeting the needs of every student.

Country affiliation

Canada

Application fees

- An application fee of CAD 350.00 (non-refundable) applies for Kindergarten to Grade 8 applications.
- An application fee of CAD 550.00 (non-refundable) applies for international applications.

Tuition fees (by year group and payment plan)

- Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8 — Domestic students (academic year total):
- Plan 1 (Full payment): CAD 25,800 per year — CAD 3,000 non-refundable enrollment deposit plus CAD 22,800 due at time of enrollment.
- Plan 2 (Monthly installments): CAD 26,500 per year — CAD 3,000 non-refundable enrollment deposit plus eight monthly installments of CAD 2,937.50.

- Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8 — International students (academic year total):
- Full payment option: CAD 29,000 per year — one full payment due at time of enrollment. All international tuition and fees are listed in Canadian funds.

What tuition covers and excludes

- Tuition includes: academic school trips; agendas; yearbook; textbooks and workbooks; in-school workshops; apps and subscriptions; art materials; school supplies; and nutritious, organic-influenced lunch & beverage plus two snacks daily for Kindergarten only.

- Tuition excludes: uniforms; ski trip; Pine Crest overnight camp; co-curricular programs; before & after care (except where noted); and the lunch program for Grades 1–8. Additional optional programs and overnight camps are charged separately.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- An enrollment deposit of CAD 3,000 is required for all plans; this deposit is non-refundable and is applied toward the total tuition. The remaining balance for Plan 1 is due at time of enrollment. For Plan 2 the remaining balance is collected as eight monthly installments (amounts shown above). International students on the full-payment plan remit the full tuition at enrollment.

Before and after school care (additional fees)

- Before school care: CAD 15 per day (available 7:30 am to 8:20 am).
- After school care: CAD 20 per day (available 3:30 pm to 6:00 pm). Note: Kindergarten children may remain for an extra 30 minutes without charge when a sibling in Grade 1–8 is dismissed at 4:00 pm.

Sibling and loyalty discounts

- Sibling discount: a 5% tuition discount applies to additional siblings after the first child (the first child pays full tuition).
- Loyalty program: families with five or more full-time academic years at the school qualify for a 5% tuition discount; this loyalty discount cannot be combined with the sibling discount.

Boarding fees

- Boarding is not applicable — Richland Academy operates as a day school (no boarding fees).

Other costs and optional fees

- Uniforms are not included in tuition and are charged separately. Co-curricular activities, overnight camps (e.g., Pine Crest) and certain extracurricular programs are charged in addition to tuition. Fees for these items are billed separately through the school's activity/payment system.

Refund information

- The CAD 3,000 enrollment deposit is non-refundable and is part of the total tuition. For international applicants only: if a Canadian Embassy or High Commission denies a student permit application, the school will refund fees less CAD 5,000 upon receipt of the official denial letter and a formal withdrawal or deferral request; without proof of denial, all fees are non-refundable.

Fee payment options and processing

- Payments and activity charges are managed through the SchoolsBuddy software system and school payment processors; families use the SchoolsBuddy platform for activity management, bookings, sign-ups and online payments. The school's privacy policy notes that payment and donation processors handle tuition transactions and that the school does not store complete credit card numbers on its systems.

Boarding Arrangements

The school does not provide boarding. Before School Care is available from 7:30am to 8:20am for $15 per day, and After School Care is available from 3:30pm to 6:00pm for $20 per day.

Uniform Requirement

Uniforms are used by Richland Academy students and are not included in tuition.

Food Options

Nutritious, organic-influenced lunch and beverages are provided daily, and two snacks are provided for Kindergarten.

House System

The school has a house system with four houses—Fox, Wickenheiser, Webstad, and Suzuki—that compete across the year; the Oliveira Cup is awarded to the house with the most points.

Governance and Ownership

As an Independent School, Richland Academy is privately funded.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Teachers build strong connections with students through daily interactions, regular check-ins, and an understanding of each learner's individual needs. The school offers targeted workshops for social-emotional skills and executive functioning. Yoga sessions support student wellbeing. All classrooms have dedicated quiet spaces, and sensory tools are available to support learning. Ongoing workload monitoring helps manage stress, and students are encouraged, challenged, and supported throughout their learning journey.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

Richland Academy is committed to providing the IB Primary Years Program and the Middle Years Program to every student admitted, regardless of learning needs. As a privately funded school, provincial funding and supports may not be available, and enrollment decisions may involve waitlists or declines if the school has reached capacity in specialized programs (such as ELL) and/or if the Learning Strategies roster is full. Admissions may consider Individual Education Plans or Growth Plans and other assessments as part of determining appropriate placement.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

International students are welcomed. There is no formal ESL program, but additional support and guidance are provided as needed. Staff, including Daniela Quiquero, supports English language learners.

Mental Wellbeing

Wellbeing is central to the Richland experience. Teachers build connections with students through daily interactions and regular check-ins. Student support is provided through a range of services, including yoga sessions, targeted social-emotional skills workshops, executive functioning workshops, dedicated quiet spaces in classrooms, sensory tools, flexible seating, and ongoing monitoring of workload and stress.

Safeguarding

Keeping students safe is addressed in policy and practice; Richland collects information to support safety, including administering medication, managing allergies, and responding to emergencies, as described in the Privacy Policy.

History

Richland Academy was founded in 2002 with a vision to see, honour, and inspire every child. The school grew into a Reggio-inspired IB World School that emphasises holistic education of mind, body, and spirit. Marlina Oliveira, the founder, describes a learning community where students are directly involved in their learning and where strong relationships among students, families, and staff shape daily life. In 2027, a new Aurora Senior Campus will open to extend Richland's program to Grade 12, and the Kindergarten-to-Grade-12 pathway is planned to be completed by 2030.

Community

Richland Academy is a close-knit community where students, families and educators build meaningful relationships, celebrate together, and foster a strong sense of belonging beyond the classroom. Families are valued partners in education, and their involvement strengthens student wellbeing, supports academic growth, and enriches the learning experience. Through opportunities such as Parent Ambassadors, classroom engagement, guest presentations, and community events, families work alongside educators to help create a supportive environment where students can grow with confidence and purpose. Alumni remain connected to their teachers and the school community after graduation.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

Richland Academy features a Parent Ambassadors program that engages families as active partners in education. Families join educators in classroom engagement, guest presentations, and community events to support student wellbeing and academic growth. The program fosters collaboration between families and teachers to create a supportive learning environment where students can grow with confidence and purpose. Alumni remain connected to teachers and the school community after graduation.

Facilities Overview

Richland Academy operates a Junior Campus in Richmond Hill for JK–Grade 8 and will open a Senior Campus in Aurora in 2027. The Junior Campus uses a Reggio Emilia-inspired design with classrooms, Ateliers, Piazza, and outdoor spaces to encourage creativity, collaboration, inquiry, and meaningful connections. The Junior Campus is located at 11570 Yonge St, Richmond Hill, Ontario L4E 3N7. The Senior Campus opening in 2027 will include a full cafeteria, gym, arts and music rooms, and flexible spaces for group work and independent study. The campuses are designed to support students at every stage of their learning journey. [Campuses & Facilities; IB at Richland; Clubs & Activities; Athletics]

Sports Facilities

Athletics at Richland Academy include intramurals, SSAF competitions, and House Games that promote teamwork and school spirit. The intramural program serves students in Grades 2–8 with teams in modified sports to develop sportsmanship and leadership. Richland Academy participates in the Small School Athletics Federation (SSAF), enabling competitions against other schools, with popular sports including soccer, cross country, basketball, badminton, and track and field. Students belong to one of four houses—Fox, Wickenheiser, Webstad, and Suzuki—and compete in House Games for the Oliveira Cup. The Senior Campus will feature a gym as part of its facilities opening in Aurora in 2027. [Athletics; Campuses & Facilities; IB at Richland; Clubs & Activities]

Academic Facilities

The International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes are offered across the continuum: Primary Years Programme (JK–Grade 6), Middle Years Programme (Grade 7–10), and Senior Years Programme (11–12) Diploma Programme. The Junior Campus incorporates Reggio Emilia-inspired spaces, including classrooms, Ateliers, Piazza, and outdoor areas to support inquiry and collaboration. The IB continuum emphasizes inquiry-based learning, a concept-driven curriculum, and student agency, with the IB learner profile guiding development across the programmes. The Senior Years Programme (11–12) Diploma Programme begins in 2029. The school's IB framework is supported by spaces and practices outlined on the campus pages. [IB at Richland; Campuses & Facilities; IB at Richland; Primary Years Programme; Middle Years Programme; Senior Years (DP)]

Extra Curricular Facilities

Beyond the classroom, diverse co-curricular programs exist in athletics, arts, and enrichment, with sessions running 6–8 weeks after school or during lunch. Examples of offered programs include Archery, Chess Club, Cooking Club, EcoClub, Dance Club, Dungeons & Dragons, Engineering for Kids, Gymnastics, Lego Club, Reading Club, Spanish Club, STEAM, and Young Scientists. An after-care program runs before and after school for all students, including supervision from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Programs vary by season, with offerings between Fall, Winter, and Spring. [Clubs & Activities; Athletics; After Care; Diverse Co-Curricular Programs]

Academic & Intellectual

Diverse co-curricular programs support academic enrichment and inquiry. Programs include Archery, Chess Club, Cooking Club, EcoClub, Dance Club, Dungeons & Dragons, Engineering for Kids, Gymnastics, Lego Club, Reading Club, Spanish Club, STEAM, and Young Scientists. These programs run in 6–8 week sessions after school or during lunch recess. Before and after care is available outside regular hours (7:30 to 8:30 am and 4:00 to 6:00 pm).

Arts & Creative

Performing arts are central to the Richland experience. Concerts, assemblies, celebrations of learning, musical theatre productions, community performances, festivals, and competitions provide authentic opportunities to showcase learning. Visual arts are integrated through a dedicated Art Studio where inquiries become painting, clay, wire, and print. The Instrumental Music Program covers classroom percussion, Orff instruments, and ukulele, and in Grades 7 and 8 offers jazz band, contemporary groups, musical theatre, songwriting, and music technology; the Bilingual Choir performs at school events and in the wider community.

Cultural & Language

Spanish Club is offered to develop language skills and cultural awareness. The Bilingual Choir provides opportunities to strengthen vocal skills within the school's bilingual context. Performing arts activities also support cross-cultural experiences through concerts, festivals, and community performances.

Social & Hobbies

Clubs and activities extend learning beyond the classroom: Archery, Chess Club, Cooking Club, EcoClub, Dance Club, Dungeons & Dragons, Engineering for Kids, Lego Club, Reading Club, STEAM, and Young Scientists. Programs run in 6–8 week sessions after school or during lunch recess. Before and after care is available to support families outside regular hours.

Community & Service

Giving back is a deliberate part of student life. EcoSchools initiatives and real-world community projects engage students in addressing environmental and social issues. The school runs actions such as Out in the Cold with 360kids, 360kids Adopt a Youth Program, food bank collections, clothing drives, and other campaigns to support local organizations. These experiences foster compassion, social responsibility, and ongoing community involvement.

Leadership & Professional

Leadership is cultivated from the early years through programs like Learning Buddies, where older and younger students connect. Students lead community projects, exhibitions, and service initiatives, including PYP Exhibition and MYP Community Projects. EcoSchools, talent shows, and school assemblies provide opportunities for leadership, collaboration, and organizational experience that extend beyond the classroom.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Wellbeing is supported through yoga sessions, social-emotional skills workshops, and executive-functioning workshops. Classrooms feature quiet spaces, sensory tools, and flexible seating to support learning, with ongoing monitoring of workload to reduce stress. The school also offers intramural activities, SSAF competitions, and a House system with four teams that promote teamwork, resilience, and school spirit.

Admissions

1. Book a Private Tour or Open House. Once a Veracross account is created, schedule a Private Tour or sign up for an upcoming Open House to explore Richland Academy's IB and Reggio-inspired learning environment and campus. This initial step helps families understand the school before submitting an application.
2. Submit Your Child(ren)'s Application Online. Complete the online application and include: a copy of the child's three most recent report cards (if applicable); a copy of the birth certificate or passport. The application fee is $350.00 (non-refundable) for Kindergarten to Grade 8, or $550.00 CDN (non-refundable) for International Applications.
3. Invitation to a Personal Day Visit / Assessment. After reviewing the application, a day visit/assessment is scheduled. For Grades 1–8, an assessment determines academic abilities; for JK–SK, a comprehensive tool is used to get to know them better.
4. Receive Your Child(ren)'s Offer of Placement. Admission decisions are based on careful assessment and are made in each child's best interests. Families who receive an offer of placement will also receive a registration package.

Waitlist

Admission decisions can include a waitlist notification. Applications are accepted year-round, but December is recommended for priority consideration for the following school year.

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St. Mildred’s-Lightbourn School

Instructs in English

Fees CA$26,300 - 35,600

Type Girls School

St. Mildred's-Lightbourn School is an all-girls independent day school in Oakville, Ontario, serving JK through Grade 12 on a 10-acre campus in Olde Oakville. The school teaches in English and follows the Canadian curriculum, enhanced by the Reggio Emilia–inspired approach in the Junior School and an Advanced Placement (AP) program in the Senior School. From Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12, the curriculum is personalized and real-world, with Middle School students engaging in reach-ahead academics, leadership opportunities, project-based learning, and co-curricular experiences, and Senior School students pursuing areas of passion and deeper learning. AP courses cover Mathematics, Sciences, Languages and Visual Arts, with potential university credit. Distinctive programs include STEM Commons, Global Citizenship, STEM & Robotics, and the Professional Internship. Facilities include a soccer field, indoor gym, science labs and STEM spaces; the campus houses the Student Success Centre and University Guidance, supporting learning and transitions. Preparing students for global futures.

Location

1080 Linbrook Road, Oakville, Ontario L6J 2L1. The campus spans 10 acres in Olde Oakville. It serves girls from Junior Kindergarten through Grade 12, with Junior School JK–5, Middle School 6–8, and Senior School 9–12.

Stages

Junior School (JK–5); Middle School (Grade 6–8); Senior School (Grade 9–12).

Type

Independent day school for girls.

Additional learning support

Student Success Centre provides Learning Strategies; differentiated instruction and accommodations address varied learning needs. Some girls require skill-building, academic accommodations, and/or adaptive technology, with specialists working to tailor support to each student's learning profile.

Country affiliation

Canada

Religious affiliation

Anglican-based.

Bus service

Transportation includes Regular (door-to-door) bus service, Regular Rider–One-Way, and Occasional Riders. Busing serves Oakville, Mississauga, Burlington, Etobicoke, Milton, Halton Hills and Brampton, with arrangements for riders outside these areas by emailing bus@smls.on.ca. A 5 p.m. late-bus pilot is available for eligible students in outlying areas.

Application & Registration Fees

- Application Fee (new students): CAD 200 (payment required if applicable with application).
- Registration Fee (new students): a non‑refundable CAD 5,000 payable when an offer of admission is accepted.
- International students: required to pay 50% of tuition upon acceptance to confirm enrolment.

Annual Tuition by Year Group (2026–2027 academic year)

- Junior Kindergarten / Senior Kindergarten (JK/SK): CAD 26,300 per year.
- Junior School (JS1 to JS5): CAD 31,000 per year.
- Middle School (MS6 to MS8): CAD 34,400 per year.
- Senior School (SS9 to SS12): CAD 35,600 per year.

Technology & Facility Fees (billed separately)

- Technology Fee, Junior School (JS1–JS5): CAD 600 per year.
- Technology Fee, Middle & Senior School (MS6–SS12): CAD 1,900 per year.
- Facility Renewal Fee (all students JK–SS12): CAD 900 per year.
- Note: Technology and Facility Renewal Fees are billed in accordance with the payment plan selected; families choosing the Advanced Payment Plan receive a 3% discount on the Technology Fee.

Tuition Payment Plans — amounts and schedules (full detail by year group)

- Advanced Payment Plan:
- Deposit: CAD 3,000 (all year groups).
- Balance due on May 1 (2026):
- JK/SK: CAD 22,511 (total after deposit: CAD 25,511).
- JS1–JS5: CAD 27,070 (total after deposit: CAD 30,070).
- MS6–MS8: CAD 30,368 (total after deposit: CAD 33,368).
- SS9–SS12: CAD 31,532 (total after deposit: CAD 34,532).
- The Advanced Payment Plan totals above reflect the advanced‑payment amounts stated for the 2026–2027 handbook.

- Standard Payment Plan (four payments plus deposit):
- Deposit: CAD 3,000 (all year groups).
- Four scheduled payments due on: May 1, July 1, September 1, and December 1 (amounts by year group):
- JK/SK: 4 payments of CAD 5,825 (deposit CAD 3,000 + 4 x CAD 5,825 = CAD 26,300 total).
- JS1–JS5: 4 payments of CAD 7,000 (deposit CAD 3,000 + 4 x CAD 7,000 = CAD 31,000 total).
- MS6–MS8: 4 payments of CAD 7,850 (deposit CAD 3,000 + 4 x CAD 7,850 = CAD 34,400 total).
- SS9–SS12: 4 payments of CAD 8,150 (deposit CAD 3,000 + 4 x CAD 8,150 = CAD 35,600 total).
- These amounts are billed according to the Standard Payment Plan schedule.

- Monthly Payment Plan (deposit + 10 monthly payments):
- Deposit: CAD 3,000 (all year groups).
- Ten post‑dated monthly payments due on the 30th of each month from April 30, 2026 through January 30, 2027 (amounts by year group):
- JK/SK: 10 payments of CAD 2,435.20 (10 x CAD 2,435.20 = CAD 24,352; plus deposit CAD 3,000 = CAD 27,352 total).
- JS1–JS5: 10 payments of CAD 2,924.00 (10 x CAD 2,924.00 = CAD 29,240; plus deposit CAD 3,000 = CAD 32,240 total).
- MS6–MS8: 10 payments of CAD 3,277.60 (10 x CAD 3,277.60 = CAD 32,776; plus deposit CAD 3,000 = CAD 35,776 total).
- SS9–SS12: 10 payments of CAD 3,402.40 (10 x CAD 3,402.40 = CAD 34,024; plus deposit CAD 3,000 = CAD 37,024 total).
- Monthly payments must be provided by 10 post‑dated cheques or by pre‑authorized debit.

Billing schedule & payment terms

- Deposit is CAD 3,000 for all payment plans unless otherwise indicated (new‑student registration fee CAD 5,000 is separate and non‑refundable).
- Standard Plan: payments due May 1, July 1, September 1, December 1.
- Monthly Plan: 10 monthly payments due on the 30th of the month (Apr 30 to Jan 30).
- Advanced Plan: deposit CAD 3,000; balance due May 1.
- For Monthly & Standard plans, Tuition Refund Plan (insurance) is included automatically; for the Advanced Plan TRP is optional.
- Late payments: interest at 1.5% per month (18% per annum) applied to accounts exceeding 15 days overdue.
- NSF/declined payment fee: CAD 50 per declined payment.

Accepted payment methods & processing details

- Cheque or money order payable to St. Mildred's‑Lightbourn School (include the 7‑digit User ID on payment).
- Online banking (add St. Mildred's‑Lightbourn School as a payee using the 7‑digit User ID): Bank of Montreal, CIBC, Royal Bank of Canada, Scotiabank, TD Canada Trust.
- Plastiq online credit card payments (third‑party processing fee applies).
- Wire transfer (bank fee CAD 15 applies; sender responsible for bank charges). Bank details (CIBC) and instruction to notify the Finance Office are used for wire payments.
- Monthly Plan: payments may be made by pre‑authorized debit or by providing 10 post‑dated cheques.

Boarding fees

- St. Mildred's‑Lightbourn School does not list boarding fees; the school operates as a day school and no residential/boarding charges are included in the 2026–2027 schedule.

Other costs and typical supplemental charges (estimates for 2026–2027)

- Uniform (standard items; paid to Inschoolwear) typical range: CAD 650 – CAD 1,250.
- School supplies / textbooks (varies by division): Junior School supply list CAD 200 – CAD 300; Senior School textbooks CAD 300 – CAD 500.
- Extended Day (annual rates): morning options CAD 450 – CAD 1,765; afternoon options CAD 795 – CAD 3,200 (depending on number of days per week).
- Team/activity fees (athletics, clubs, robotics, competitions): variable — examples: JS athletics CAD 50–110 per team; MS athletics CAD 50–130 per team; SS athletics CAD 100–250 per team; robotics registration CAD 165–265; robotics competitions CAD 400–500.
- Optional travel and global citizenship trip costs (examples): Senior School discovery abroad CAD 5,000–7,500; March break optional trips CAD 7,000–11,000; Round Square conferences CAD 5,000–8,000.
- Bus program: bus charges are billed in September and due upon receipt; route pricing available from the school.
- Lost uniform replacement: CAD 100–150.
- AP testing: approximately CAD 175 per exam; PSAT CAD 30.
- These supplemental cost ranges are estimates and are billed as incurred; specific charges vary by participation and program.

Refunds, withdrawals and tuition‑refund insurance

- Enrollment contracts create an obligation for full annual tuition; the Tuition Refund Plan (TRP) is an insurance program intended to provide a pro‑rated refund in covered circumstances. Participation in TRP is mandatory for families on the Standard and Monthly Payment Plans and is optional for families selecting the Advanced Payment Plan. TRP premium amounts for 2026–2027 are by division (examples): JK/SK CAD 165.31; JS1–JS5 CAD 194.85; MS6–MS8 CAD 216.22; SS9–SS12 CAD 223.77.

- Withdrawal & refund obligations (key deadlines for the 2026–2027 year):
- If the school receives a formal withdrawal request prior to April 15, 2026, the school will retain the non‑refundable deposit only.
- If the request is received between April 15, 2026 and July 15, 2026, the school will retain the non‑refundable deposit and parents/guardians are responsible for payment of 50% of the outstanding tuition according to the Standard Payment Plan.
- If the request is received after July 15, 2026, parents/guardians are unconditionally obligated to pay fees for the full academic year; no portion will be refunded or cancelled for absence, withdrawal, or dismissal.
- For medically covered withdrawals or other covered circumstances, the Tuition Refund Plan provides benefit payments to the school according to its policy terms (TRP details describe coverage percentages and exclusions).

Summary of key administrative charges & penalties

- Registration Fee (new students, non‑refundable): CAD 5,000.
- Deposit (all plans, unless otherwise stated): CAD 3,000.
- Technology Fee: CAD 600 (JS) or CAD 1,900 (MS/SS).
- Facility Renewal Fee: CAD 900 (all students).
- Late payment interest: 1.5% per month (18% per annum).
- NSF/declined payment fee: CAD 50.
- Wire transfer bank fee: CAD 15 (added to wire amount).

Important procedural notes

- Payment plans and amounts above apply to the 2026–2027 Financial Handbook schedule and include the detailed payment dates and instalment amounts for each plan option.
- Supplemental, optional, and incidental charges vary by program participation and are billed as incurred; bus, extended‑day and auxiliary program fees are billed separately at stated times during the year.

Uniform Requirement

All students wear a regulation school uniform. Uniform items are supplied by InSchoolwear (505 Iroquois Shore Rd, Unit 7, Oakville) and Made for Millies Store. Phys-ed uniforms and Wellness Wednesday gear are worn, and alterations can be arranged through Stitch It.

Food Options

Food services are provided in partnership with Chartwells Canada. Meals are prepared from scratch with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, offering hot and cold options and accommodating dietary restrictions. The program includes healthy snacks and on-site nutrition education in an on-site teaching kitchen.

House System

There are three Houses: Brant-Massey (red), Cartier-Vanier (green) and Grenfell-Alexander (blue). Sisters and Legacy daughters are placed in the same House. Students earn House Points through intramurals, service, clubs and other activities; the House with the top average points is recognized at the final assembly and the House Cup is engraved.

Governance and Ownership

St. Mildred's-Lightbourn School is governed by an independent Board of Governors, the ultimate decision-making body responsible for governance, long-term sustainability and the school's strategic plan. Board members are drawn from parents, alumnae, the Community of the Sisters of the Church, and friends; the Board oversees committees such as Finance & Audit, Strategy & Facilities, Governance, and Community Relations.

Curriculum

From Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12, the curriculum is personalized and real-world. The Junior School uses a Reggio Emilia–inspired approach. In Middle School students test their strengths through reach-ahead academics, leadership opportunities, project-based learning, and co-curricular experiences. In the Senior School students engage in deeper learning, pursue areas of passion, and develop critical thinking, with the Advanced Placement (AP) programme offering university-level coursework. AP courses cover Mathematics, Sciences, Languages and Visual Arts, and successful completion of AP examinations may earn first-year university credit or advanced standing; the AP programme is recognized by American universities.

Student Teacher Ratio

Small class sizes have been maintained.

Exam Results

80% of graduates achieved the Ontario Scholar Award.

Higher Education Progression

Two University Guidance Counsellors guide students through course selection, scholarship applications, and post-secondary pathways.

Gifted and Talented

Advanced Placement (AP) course offerings in Mathematics, Sciences, Languages and Visual Arts provide first-year university credit or advanced standing; AP courses are offered through the School's own program and via the e‑learning consortium (ELCC). AP courses offered for 2025–2026 include Biology, Calculus AB, Chemistry, Chinese Language and Culture, Studio Art, French Language and Culture, English Literature and Composition, Physics 1, Psychology, and more; Students may study AP subjects through ELCC online or on campus. AP courses are designed for highly motivated students, with guidelines for enrollment and testing, and final AP exams are offered in May with results available in July. The Duke of Edinburgh's Award Programme is also part of the program, with Bronze compulsory and Silver/Gold encouraged. The External Studies Programme provides reach-ahead courses and opportunities beyond the school walls through ELCC and partner arrangements. The Susan E. Both Enhanced Learning Centre (ELC) provides access to technology to support learning.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

The school supports social and emotional learning through Circle of Care, a dedicated multidisciplinary team that supports students across academic, social, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs. Circle of Care includes divisional principals, guidance faculty, learning strategies faculty, the school nurse, and the school social worker. When social or emotional concerns are raised by students, staff, or families, Circle of Care collaborates to improve student well-being. The approach emphasizes holistic development and proactive support to help students build resilience, confidence, and healthy relationships. This framework underpins student life across academics and co-curricular programs to support girls as learners and leaders.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

Student Success Centre and Learning Strategies Program support diverse learning needs. The program recognizes that each child has a unique learning style and coordinates with classroom teachers to address different profiles. Some girls require skill-building, academic accommodations, and/or adaptive technology. Specialists work with the girls to nurture and develop their learning profiles, with the goal of academic success. Learning Strategists liaise with parents and connect with outside professionals as needed and develop a learning plan for each student.

Mental Wellbeing

Wellbeing is a central focus at the school. Circle of Care supports mental wellbeing by addressing students' social and emotional health as well as academic, physical, and spiritual needs. The Circle of Care Team includes divisional principals, guidance faculty, learning strategies faculty, a school nurse, and a school social worker. When concerns arise, Circle of Care collaborates to improve wellbeing and provide timely support. This multidisciplinary approach helps students feel secure, supported, and ready to engage fully in school.

Safeguarding

Safeguarding is embedded in Circle of Care, a multidisciplinary team supporting student welfare. The Circle of Care Team includes divisional principals, guidance faculty, learning strategies faculty, the school nurse, and the school social worker. The team collaborates to address concerns raised by students, staff, or families. They support student needs across academic, social, emotional, physical, and spiritual dimensions. The aim is to ensure a safe, healthy learning environment and timely coordinated responses to concerns.

History

St. Mildred's-Lightbourn School has a proud history of educational excellence for girls and young women. From its early days, the school was a pioneer in women's education, offering a well‑rounded curriculum that includes rigorous academics, global citizenship, competitive sport, healthy living and community service. SMLS is Anglican‑based and welcomes students from every faith, fostering diversity and inclusivity. In 1891, the Sisters of the Church opened a day school in Toronto, which became St. Mildred's College in September 1908. In 1923, Ruth Lightbourn began teaching the daughters of Oakville residents, The Lightbourn School grew, and in 1969 the two schools merged under the Sisters of the Church; governance moved to a permanent Board of Governors in 1986. Today, more than 130 years after its founding, St. Mildred's-Lightbourn School continues thriving.

Community

St. Mildred's-Lightbourn School has a warm and inclusive community that includes students, alumnae, parents, grandparents, staff, faculty, and friends. Everyday, the support of this community is felt and contributes to students' sense of belonging and well‑being. The school's culture emphasizes connection and mutual support across generations within the SMLS community.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

The SMLS Parent Association actively contributes to the school's overall well‑being by promoting fellowship among all those connected to the school and providing financial support through fundraising activities. As dedicated volunteers, the Parent Association hosts events and activities throughout the year for students, families, faculty and staff to enjoy. The Parent Association also hosts Used Uniform Sales for the school community. It is connected with other schools and parent groups through the Interguild of School Parent Associations and Guilds to stay up‑to‑date on trends in independent schools and to access networking opportunities.

Facilities Overview

Located on 10 beautiful acres in Olde Oakville, St. Mildred's-Lightbourn School serves girls from JK through Grade 12. The campus includes a soccer field, classrooms, a gym, and a dining hall that are accessible year-round. The STEM Commons is a campus-wide initiative designed to deliver learning spaces that spark confidence, curiosity, and leadership for students. In the summer of 2026, the main floor of the South Wing will be refreshed to upgrade science labs, math classrooms, and the locker areas for Middle and Senior School students.

Sports Facilities

The campus features an outdoor soccer field and an indoor gym as part of its athletic spaces. The school offers more than 40 athletics teams. The athletic spaces are integrated with a broader, activity-rich campus environment that supports student leadership and teamwork. Facilities are maintained to support regular practices, competitions, and a broad program of sports participation for girls.

Academic Facilities

Academic facilities include science laboratories and mathematics classrooms, supported by the STEM Commons, which centers on spaces designed for girls' learning. The STEM Commons is designed to reflect how girls learn best and to foster creativity, independence, and collaboration across disciplines. In summer 2026, the main floor of the South Wing will be refreshed to upgrade science labs, math classrooms, and Middle/Senior School locker areas. The campus also houses the Student Success Centre and University Guidance programs to support learning across divisions.

Extra Curricular Facilities

The co-curricular landscape includes more than 50 clubs and councils and more than 40 athletics teams. Opportunities span debate, soccer, robotics, and other activities, with details for the 2026–27 Co-Curricular Schedule available to students. St. Mildred's has the first all-girls robotics team in Canada, illustrating the school's commitment to hands-on STEM leadership. The overall program emphasizes leadership, teamwork, and wellbeing beyond the classroom.

Academic & Intellectual

STMLS integrates practical, hands-on experiences into the curriculum to develop critical thinking, problem-solving and real-world skills. The school offers signature programs such as Global Citizenship, STEM & Robotics, and Professional Internship to connect academics with real-world contexts. STEM programming is embedded across divisions, with additional STEM and robotics activities and co-curricular challenges available. Real-world experiences and leadership-focused learning underpin the co-curricular approach, ensuring students engage beyond the classroom.

Arts & Creative

Arts and design are integral to the curriculum, with drama and theatre, instrumental and vocal music, visual art, and design-integrated learning. Students have opportunities to express their artistic talents through exhibitions, performances and concerts throughout the year. Arts & Design is a Signature Program, weaving creativity into inquiry-based projects and design thinking.

Cultural & Language

Global Citizenship engages students with the world beyond the school, connecting learning to real-world contexts. Language-related clubs and activities appear across divisions, including language-focused groups such as Spanish Club and French Choir performances in Senior School. The school's Signature Programs and international orientation support a culturally aware and globally connected community.

Social & Hobbies

Leadership opportunities exist at every level, with 50+ clubs and councils and 40+ athletic teams offering wide-ranging social and hobby avenues. The all-girls environment encourages participation in clubs, councils, and team activities, fostering collaboration and peer leadership. An engaged and supportive community underpins student involvement and social development.

Community & Service

Community service is a hallmark of SMLS, with Junior School drives, neighbourhood clean-ups, and service activities; Middle School volunteers earn hours through the Junior Duke Program; Senior School students organize charity events and global service learning. Students contribute to local organizations and participate in fundraising and service events, such as Meals on Wheels drives and Campfire Circle initiatives. The program emphasizes giving back to local and global communities and developing social responsibility.

Leadership & Professional

Leadership is embedded at every level with opportunities across clubs, councils and student governance. The Professional Internship Signature Program provides Grade 11 students with a four-week, school-supervised work placement across various industries. These experiences build leadership, professional skills and networks that support post-secondary pursuits.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Active Healthy Living is a Signature Program that emphasizes wellbeing, healthy living and wellness across divisions. The school promotes a safe, inclusive culture where creativity, self-advocacy and healthy risk-taking are encouraged. Wellbeing is integrated into academics and daily life, helping students maintain physical and mental health.

Admissions

1. The journey to SMLS begins with a simple online application. The goal is to understand your daughter's unique learner profile, emerging aspirations, and the spark she will bring to the community. The process is organized with grade-level pathways and a secure Admissions Portal to manage documents, track progress, and communicate with the admissions team.

2. Admission is organized by grade level: Junior School (JK–5), Middle School (Grade 6–8), and Senior School (Grade 9–12). This structure guides the review for each division, with grade-level information available for applicants. Families use the grade-level pathways to identify the appropriate entry point and steps.

3. Applications follow three windows: Fall – the Priority Window with a deadline of October 31 (priority for major entry points such as JK, Grade 1, Grade 6/7, and Grade 9); Winter – Mid-Cycle Admissions with a February 14 deadline for remaining spots; Spring & Summer – Rolling Admissions. Placements are subject to space availability. Decisions are made and communicated once the application is complete.

4. To begin this journey, select the appropriate pathway; prospective families create an account on the secure Admissions Portal. A non-refundable application fee of $200 initiates the comprehensive review of the daughter's profile by the Admissions Committee. Current families may log in through MySMLS and many details will be pre-populated to streamline the process.

5. The journey continues with a comprehensive review of the daughter's profile by the Admissions Committee. The Admissions team will communicate decisions once the application is complete. General inquiries go to contact@smls.on.ca and admissions inquiries to admissions@smls.on.ca.

Scholarships

The school offers a Financial Support Program funded by donors and the Endowment Fund, currently valued at over $2.3 million, to make SMLS education accessible. The program is administered through a confidential process with an emphasis on fairness and broad impact. Prospective families should submit the financial support application with the daughter's Application for Admission, while returning families should renew by January 15. Applicants complete an Apple Financial Services online assessment (fee $137.50) and AFS provides a confidential eligibility report to the SMLS Financial Aid Committee, which reviews recommendations for allocation of funds. Grade 9 Merit Scholarships are renewable awards for incoming Grade 9 students, valued at $20,000 per year for four years, based on pillars including Athletics, The Arts, STEM & Robotics, Global Citizenship, and Leadership; eligible students must be fully enrolled in Grade 9 for the 2026–2027 academic year. Applications for the 2026–2027 Grade 9 Scholarship have now closed; applications for 2027–2028 will open in autumn 2026.

Waitlist

Waitlists are used when a grade reaches capacity during mid-cycle admissions. Qualified applicants are invited to join the waiting list. If a space becomes available, wait-listed students are first in line for admission.

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