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The Country Day School

Canada, King City

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees CA$37,150
Ages Not listed
Pupil numbers 806
Type Co-educational
Opened 1972
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum Canadian Curriculum, Advanced Placement (AP)
Taught languages French
Typical class size 18
Strengths Outdoor Education, Performing Arts, STEM
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Community and Service
Stages Early Years, Kindergarten, Primary School, Middle School, Secondary School
Introduction

The Country Day School (CDS) is a co-educational independent day school on a 100-acre campus in King Township, north of Toronto. CDS offers JK–12 programming, with the Senior School following the Ontario Secondary School curriculum and providing more than 20 optional courses by the final year; Advanced Placement is offered as an enrichment option with exams through the College Board. The school emphasizes balance, integrating academics, athletics, and outdoor education, with differentiated instruction. A strong university-placement program supports graduates as they pursue post-secondary opportunities. The student body is about 820 students with an average class size of 18. The campus features Junior, Middle and Senior schools, each with a gym, plus a Performing Arts Centre, a sports dome, 10 playing fields, and hiking and biking trails. CDS offers more than 40 clubs and sports, including robotics, debating and Model UN, and Duke of Edinburgh Program, alongside an arts scene.

13415 Dufferin Street, King, Ontario L7B 1K5, Canada

The Essentials

The Country Day School has 806 pupils, typical class sizes of 18, instruction in English.

Location
The Country Day School is located at 13415 Dufferin Street, King, Ontario L7B 1K5, Canada. The campus sits on 100 acres north of Toronto.

Stages
JK-12; Junior School, Middle School and Senior School on a single campus.

Type
Co-ed, independent day school.

Additional learning support
Counsellors and learning strategists provide academic and personal support. They offer academic support, learning strategies, and accommodations; programs include peer tutoring, learning strategies classes and special education accommodations.

Country affiliation
Canada

Bus service
The Country Day School has its own fleet of eight buses, operating seven daily bus routes to and from parts of the York, Simcoe and Peel regions, including as far north as Barrie. More than 150 students use this service daily; routes are route-specific with a flat fee.
Diving Deeper

Boarding Arrangements
The school does not offer a boarding or homestay program; students must live locally with a parent.

Uniform Requirement
CDS uses a crested school uniform for all students. Junior School (Grades 1–6) wears navy dress pants or tunic with a white Oxford shirt and a CDS tie; Middle and Senior School (Grades 7–12) wear a navy blazer with crest, dress pants or a kilt, a white shirt, and a school or house tie. PE and drama uniforms are worn where required and are available only through the General Store.

Food Options
Dining is in the Niczowski, Temovsky, Arrigo Dining Hall, with meals made from scratch and local ingredients used whenever possible. Dietary needs are accommodated by the kitchen staff, and meals are served to younger students in classrooms with older students dining in a marché-style setting; field trips receive boxed lunches when away from campus. CDS partners with Greenbelt Fund and 100km Foods for local sourcing.

Governance and Ownership
The school is governed by an independent, not-for-profit Board of Directors that oversees the strategy, policy and management of CDS.
Fees

Annual tuition at The Country Day School ranges from CAD 37,150 for 2026/27.

Application & enrolment fees

- Enrolment fee (one-time, non-refundable): CAD 5,000 per child, payable at the time of enrolment. For the 2025–2026 year a sibling discount of CAD 1,000 per sibling was applied; sibling-discount policies are set by the school.

Tuition (2026–2027) — core day program (Grades JK–12)

- Base tuition: CAD 37,150 per year (Grades JK–12).
- Suggested Annual Capital Fund donation (voluntary): CAD 1,000 per child. When shown together with tuition the combined figure is CAD 38,150. The Capital Fund donation is listed as voluntary.

Tuition — payment plans and totals (2026–2027)

- Plan A (single annual payment): qualifies for a stated savings of CAD 525 (labelled on the school schedule as "PLAN A (savings of CAD 525)"). Applying that saving to the combined tuition + suggested capital amount (CAD 38,150) produces a payable total of CAD 37,625 under Plan A.

- Plan B (bi/term payments — listed schedule):
- Initial payment: CAD 4,750 due January 22, 2026.
- Second payment: CAD 11,800 due May 1, 2026.
- Third payment: CAD 10,800 due August 1, 2026.
- Fourth payment: CAD 10,800 due November 1, 2026.
- Total payable under Plan B (tuition + suggested capital fund): CAD 38,150.

- Plan C (monthly instalments — labelled premium):
- Initial payment: CAD 4,750 due January 22, 2026.
- Ten instalments of CAD 3,397 from April 1, 2026 to January 1, 2027 (monthly).
- Total payable under Plan C as listed: CAD 38,720 (this reflects the instalment premium).

Billing schedule & payment terms (practical details)

- The school publishes specific due dates for each payment plan (examples above are the dates published for the 2026–27 schedule). Families choose a plan and submit payment forms or payment to the Business Office by the stated internal deadline. Pre-authorized bank withdrawal and credit-card payment forms are used for recurring payments.

Boarding / international / homestay

- There is no boarding option or homestay program at The Country Day School; the school operates as a day school only.

Other mandatory and routine costs (typical annual amounts and per-event items)

- Uniforms:
- First-year uniform average (excluding shoes): Junior School approximately CAD 600; Middle & Senior School approximately CAD 950.
- Ongoing uniform expense after the first year: typically CAD 200–400 per year depending on growth and replacement needs.

- Books / course materials:
- Middle & Senior School: average CAD 500 per student per year (books are purchased online and may be resold if in suitable condition).
- Junior School: average CAD 150 per student per year.

- Musical instrument rental (Grades 5–8): approximate annual rental CAD 299 (rented through a third-party supplier).

- Required field trips (budget guidelines by grade):
- JK–SK: CAD 100 per year.
- Grades 1–4: CAD 200 per year.
- Grades 5–6: CAD 500 per year (includes Glen Bernard Camp and Queen's Science Camp where applicable).
- Grades 7–8: CAD 800 per year (includes Quebec and Ottawa trips where applicable).
- Grades 9–11: CAD 200 per year.
- Grade 12: CAD 500 per year (includes university trip).

- Term athletic/extracurricular fees:
- Typical charge (excluding hockey): about CAD 150 per term per student (covers activity-related busing, uniform purchase or rental, medical coverage, officiating fees and event entry fees).
- Hockey (winter term): approximately CAD 500 for the term (covers ice rental and related costs). Athletic tournament travel costs vary and can range roughly CAD 300–1,000 depending on location.

- Senior School optional trips and international excursions: typical optional costs range from CAD 400–900 depending on the trip; specific trip prices are published in the Family Handbook at the start of each year.

- Daily bus transportation (route-based, annual charges):
- York Region (annual): full‑time rider CAD 2,350; part‑time rider CAD 1,425.
- Barrie route (annual): full‑time rider CAD 3,300; part‑time rider CAD 2,000.
- Occasional one-way rides: CAD 11 per ride (York/Halton/Peel) and CAD 15 per ride (Barrie).

- After‑school care (Junior School):
- Koalas program (3:20–4:30 p.m.): CAD 9.25 per day.
- After Care to 5:00 p.m.: CAD 13.75 per day.
- After Care to 6:00 p.m.: CAD 23.00 per day.

- Stationery kits (optional): approximately CAD 100 for Grades 2–6 and CAD 200 for Grades 7–8 (kits are available through the school store).

Refund information

- The enrolment fee is explicitly described as non‑refundable (one-time, non‑refundable fee of CAD 5,000 per child). Other refund terms for tuition or fees are handled under the school's enrolment/contract terms and by the Business Office; the enrolment contract and Family Handbook set the formal terms governing refunds and withdrawals. For specific contract-language refund terms, consult the school's enrolment documentation or the Business Office.

Accepted payment methods and how payments are made

- Pre‑authorized bank withdrawal (auto‑debit) — the school provides a Pre‑Authorized Bank Withdrawal Form for recurring payments.
- Credit‑card payments — a Credit Card Payment Form is provided; recurring card payments may require a signed form and processing setup.
- Online billing / account management — the school uses MyCDS / online billing for enrollment and to manage contracts and payment forms; families submit payment forms or payment to the Business Office by the school's internal deadline.

Contacts for fee and billing questions

- Business Office (student billing / accounts payable) handles invoices, payment plans, and forms; contact details are provided on the school's Contact page and in MyCDS.
Academics

The Country Day School teaches Canadian Curriculum, Advanced Placement (AP).

Curriculum
CDS offers JK–12 programming on a 100-acre campus in King, Ontario. The Senior School follows the Ontario Secondary School curriculum and offers some Advanced Placement courses for enrichment, with more than 20 optional courses available by the final year. The program emphasizes an education with balance, integrating academics, athletics, arts, and outdoor education, and it differentiates instruction to meet individual learning needs. AP is presented as an enrichment option for selected students; courses include Biology, Calculus AB, Computer Science A, English Language, English Literature, Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, and Comparative Government and Politics, with exams available through the College Board. The CDS curriculum is supported by an ongoing curriculum renewal process and a strong university-placement program, supported by a diverse range of extracurriculars and a student body of about 820 students with an average class size of 18.

Student Teacher Ratio
18 students per class on average.

Higher Education Progression
In 2026, 89 members of the Class of 2026 received university offers to top institutions in Canada, the United States and abroad, and 100% of the Class of 2026 graduated as Ontario Scholars.

Gifted and Talented
Advanced Placement (AP) is offered in the Senior School as an enrichment option for motivated learners. AP courses include Biology (Grade 12), Calculus AB (Grade 12), Computer Science A (Grade 10/11), English Language (Grade 11), English Literature (Grade 12), Macroeconomics (Grade 12), Microeconomics (Grade 11), and Comparative Government and Politics (Grades 9–12). CDS uses AP exams through the College Board for assessment, and many universities grant credit for qualifying scores; in 2025, 75% of CDS students who took AP exams scored a 3 or higher.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The Country Day School emphasizes wellness and character as part of a balanced education. The CDS Student Services department supports every student's growth by addressing present and future learning needs and providing emotional and social development support in a safe, nurturing environment. Each student is assigned a guidance counsellor, and counsellors focus on helping students achieve personal and academic goals within a circle of care involving parents and teachers. Personal Support is offered for issues such as conflict resolution, grief, anxiety, relationship problems and other emotional concerns, with learning strategists providing additional academic support. Learning Initiatives include accommodations and supports to help learning, such as psycho-educational testing accommodations when needed.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Special Education Accommodations are available for students who have undergone psycho-educational testing. Each student is assigned a guidance counsellor, and counsellors/learning strategists provide academic support (time management, organization, study and test-taking skills, course selection). Learning Initiatives include accommodations for learning and connections to professionals when appropriate.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
The Country Day School does not offer ESL programs. Students must demonstrate fluency in both written and spoken English to be successful here.

Mental Wellbeing
Health & Wellness at CDS focuses on helping students be healthy in mind and body and to find balance in life. Factors considered include exercise, sleep, nutrition, lifestyle choices, coping and resilience skills, and balancing academics, activities, family, spirituality and leisure. Our counsellors are committed to helping students find the support they need to achieve personal and academic goals, and to helping students become their own advocates.

Safeguarding
The Country Day School provides a safe and nurturing environment, with counsellors supporting students' emotional and social development. Each student is assigned a guidance counsellor, and the CDS Student Services team works with teachers and parents to customize learning activities and provide an integrated circle of care. Personal Support covers issues such as conflict resolution, grief, anxiety, sexuality, and other personal concerns, while Learning Initiatives include accommodations and access to professionals when needed.
Parent Experience

History
Founded in 1972 by a group of dedicated parents in King Township to create a co-ed private school for Grades 1–8 north of Toronto. Founding families included Moffat and the late Margo Dunlap, and Edmond and the late Daphne Eberts. John Pratt led a feasibility study in 1971, and CDS opened on September 11, 1972 in the former Eversley Public School with 47 students. The school purchased the property in 1978 and expanded with the David D. Ross Gym in 1980 and the Senior School in 1986. Today CDS occupies 100 acres, offers JK–12 programs north of Toronto, and is recognized as one of Canada's top independent schools with about 810 students.

Community
CDS has a connected community made up of current families, alumni, faculty and staff, past parents, grandparents and friends. The Office of Community Relations oversees initiatives and events that benefit and enrich the CDS community and bring these groups together. News around CDS is shared through News and the Backpack, alumni magazine The Link, and the school's social channels @TheCDS1972. The CDS experience is supported by community members who provide capital improvements, endowment funds, brick-and-mortar campaigns, and volunteer programs.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
The CDS Parent Association is a dynamic, supportive and collaborative group that complements CDS's guiding principles: Promote Community Involvement and Create a Place Where all are Welcome. The PA Executive builds school spirit, encourages volunteerism and goodwill, and fosters communication between parents and the school by facilitating opportunities for parent involvement and by enhancing a welcoming, inclusive environment. To learn more about the CDS Parent Association or to get involved, contact volunteer@cds.on.ca. There are opportunities such as serving as a Grade Parent. Annual PA events include the PA Walk of the Back 40 in October, the PA Community Lunch in December, the PA Evening Event in February, and the PA Daytime Event in April. Leadership roles include President, Secretary, Treasurer, PA Events Coordinator, Grade Parent Coordinators and other volunteer positions.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
The Country Day School sits on a 100-acre campus in King, Ontario. The campus houses three distinct schools—Junior, Middle, and Senior—each with its own gymnasium and bright, spacious classrooms. The facilities include a state-of-the-art theatre, a Marche-style dining hall, a cutting-edge sports dome, and 10 expansive playing fields. The grounds also feature over 3 km of scenic trails for hiking, running and mountain biking. Founded in 1972, the school has grown to offer these spaces on its campus.

Sports Facilities
A cutting-edge sports dome supports indoor athletic programs. Hawksworth Field and Tennis Courts provide outdoor facilities for team and individual sports. Cyclone Dome offers additional indoor space for activities, while Burns Family Hall and Wyndham-West Field expand the campus sports footprint. The campus includes 10 expansive playing fields for outdoor athletics.

Academic Facilities
The campus comprises Junior, Middle and Senior Schools, each equipped with its own gymnasium and bright, spacious classrooms. A Performing Arts Centre supports theatre, music and other arts programs.

Extra Curricular Facilities
There are 40+ clubs and extracurriculars and 24 sports offered. CDS hosts 3 dramatic arts performances each year. Extracurricular programs include CDS Robotics, Debating and Public Speaking, CDS Social Justice, and The Duke of Edinburgh Program. Adventures Outside the Classroom and Summer Camp provide additional opportunities.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
The Extracurricular Program offers more than 40 activities beyond regular academics and athletics. It enables collaboration between faculty and students outside the classroom, and most students in Grades 4 through 12 participate. The program includes CDS Robotics, Debating and Public Speaking, CDS Social Justice, and The Duke of Edinburgh Program, along with a wide range of clubs such as Model UN and DECA that foster inquiry and competition. These activities support intellectual growth and problem solving across disciplines.

Arts & Creative
The Arts are active through Music & Drama, with Choir, Chamber Choir, Instrumental Band, Jazz Band, and theatrical performances. Visual arts are supported by Art Studio, Pottery, Scrapbooking, and other creative offerings. Students showcase their work in performances, exhibitions, and yearbook production.

Cultural & Language
Cultural and language activities include Model UN and Sign Language Club, providing opportunities to engage with diverse cultures and develop language skills. A broad clubs landscape supports intercultural dialogue, global awareness, and respectful communication. Participation in these activities helps students learn to collaborate across cultures.

Social & Hobbies
Social and hobbies are supported by a broad slate of clubs and activities, including Ambassador Program, Book Club, Coding, Cooking, Board Games, and Model UN. Casual interests such as Pottery, Scrapbooking, and Fitness are also offered, with some activities division-specific. These options let students pursue personal interests, build friendships, and develop teamwork; some activities are division-specific.

Community & Service
Community service is integrated into student life with activities such as Jump Rope for Heart and Stroke, the Terry Fox Run, tree planting with Forests Ontario, and donations of food and toys to local charities. The Duke of Edinburgh Program emphasizes service, leadership, and volunteering as core components. Students engage in both school-led and community-based service projects throughout the year.

Leadership & Professional
The Duke of Edinburgh Program provides leadership development and service opportunities. Students can take on leadership roles through the Ambassador Program, Mock Trial, Model UN, and DECA, building presentation, teamwork, and professional skills. These experiences prepare students for leadership roles in school and beyond.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
Health & Wellness initiatives support student well-being, complemented by an Athletics program featuring intramural sports such as soccer, basketball, ball hockey, volleyball, Ultimate Frisbee, and dodgeball. Adventures Outside the Classroom expands learning through outdoor experiences. A Summer Camp offers continued engagement and physical activity during breaks.
Languages

Language Provision
French is taught in the Junior School (JK–Grade 6) using the Accelerative Integrated Method (AIM). The program emphasizes oral communication through kinesthetic activities and drama-based learning, with exposure to reading and writing. French is part of the Junior School curriculum, alongside Language, Math, Science, Social Studies, Health, Physical Education, Music, Technology, Visual Arts and Outdoor Education, and is taught by Junior School French Faculty.
Admissions

Admissions
1. Visit: Attend an open house or book a weekday tour to experience our campus and community. 2. Apply: Submit the online application by the entry-grade deadline; Grades 4, 7 and 9 have a deadline of November 3, 2026; all other grades have a deadline of December 1, 2026; applications after the deadline are reviewed on a rolling basis, subject to space. 3. Applications Reviewed: Completed applications are carefully reviewed; for entry grades, many applicants will be invited to an in-person academic and character assessment. 4. Invitations Sent: Those selected will receive an invitation to attend an assessment beginning in late October for entry grades; invitations for other cases are issued on a rolling basis. 5. Applicant Assessments: Entry-grade assessments combine group activities and an academic/character evaluation and can last up to several hours; assessments for non-entry grades are often full-day classroom visits. 6. Decisions: Entry-grade admission decisions are communicated in late November; non-entry grade decisions are communicated on a rolling basis from December onward. The main entry points are Junior Kindergarten and Grades 4, 7 and 9; applications for all grades are accepted based on space. Rolling Admissions: Applications for the 2026–27 academic year are reviewed on a rolling basis, subject to space availability, and current availability and waitlist status can be discussed with the Admissions Team before submitting an application. Application deadlines for 2027–28: Grades 4, 7 and 9 by November 3, 2026; all other grades by December 1, 2026.

Scholarships
Eberts Entrance Scholarships provide up to $15,000 for incoming students entering Grades 7–8 and 9–10 who exemplify education with balance; these scholarships are renewable each year provided the student maintains strong academic performance and active school involvement; at least one award is based on demonstrated financial need. All applicants must complete and submit the full admission application and the Eberts scholarship application by December 1; if applicable, the Financial Aid for Canadian Students (FACS) application must also be completed by December 1. Recipients are selected and contacted by mid-January. For general financial assistance, apply for bursaries through Apple Financial Services (FACS); the school's Financial Assistance Committee reviews the recommendation and determines the bursary amount; space and funds are limited, and a bursary is not guaranteed. The complete process to apply for financial assistance involves submitting the FACS application, paying the fee, Apple Financial's analysis, and School review; if approved, aid is awarded based on need and funds available.

Waitlist
Rolling admissions are in effect; discussions about current availability and waitlist status for your specific grades should take place with the Admissions Team before submitting an application.
School Events
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