St. Mildred’s-Lightbourn School

SMLS is dedicated to a personalized, real-world learning experience designed specifically for girls, grounded in the belief that girls learn differently. The school’s mission is to inspire and empower young women to challenge the status quo and transform the world. Its core values include excellence, courage, integrity, and belonging, fostering an environment where students develop confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of self.

The academic program spans JK to Grade 12, with a Reggio Emilia-inspired approach in the Junior School. The curriculum progresses through project-based learning in the Middle School to deeper, independent study in the Senior School. The school offers 10 Advanced Placement (AP) courses and unique Signature Programming, including professional internships and foundations in global competencies and active healthy living.

Graduates of SMLS consistently gain admission to top-choice universities globally, with the Class of 2023 receiving over 280 offers of admission. Students frequently secure significant scholarship funding, with cumulative totals exceeding $1 million annually. The school prepares students for post-secondary success through Advanced Placement (AP) courses, professional internships, and university preparation workshops.

The Student Success Centre provides comprehensive support to students, including guidance from social workers, a school nurse, guidance counsellors, and learning strategists. In the Senior School, students receive additional support through dedicated advisors who assist with course selection, university applications, and post-secondary planning. The school emphasizes a "Circle of Care" approach to support students' emotional, social, and academic wellbeing.

St. Mildred’s-Lightbourn School (SMLS) accepts applications for all grades from Junior Kindergarten (JK) to Grade 12, subject to availability. Primary entry points are identified as JK and Grade 1 in the Junior School, Grades 5 and 7 in the Middle School, and Grade 9 in the Senior School. Prospective families are encouraged to contact the admissions team to discuss the application process and current openings.

The school operates on an annual academic cycle, with terms concluding in June. The school year includes structured academic periods, professional internship programs for senior students, and various community events such as the Terry Fox Run/Walk. Reunion weekends and other community gatherings are scheduled periodically throughout the year.

Located on 10 acres in Olde Oakville, the campus houses all three divisions—Junior, Middle, and Senior School—within one building. The facilities include classrooms, gymnasiums, a dining hall, and outdoor sports fields. The school also features specialized spaces such as the STEM Commons, and its facilities are available for public rental for events, performances, and meetings.

SMLS offers over 50 clubs and councils, including athletics, arts, STEM, and robotics. The school fields more than 40 athletic teams and hosts the first all-girls robotics team in Canada. Students participate in leadership roles through various councils, the House System, and community service initiatives, such as the Junior Duke Program and global service learning projects.