The York School

The York School is committed to developing globally-minded, compassionate, and lifelong learners through an inquiry-based approach. Its mission emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and the cultivation of curiosity, encouraging students to be risk-takers who are open-minded, principled, and reflective. The school fosters a supportive environment where learning extends beyond the classroom into the local and global community.

The school offers four primary academic pathways: the IB Primary Years Program (PYP) for JK to Grade 6, the IB Middle Years Program (MYP) for Grades 7 to 10, the IB Diploma Program (DP) for the final two years of high school, and the Personalized Pathway Program. The latter allows students in Grades 11 and 12 to earn their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) while completing a flexible, IB-recognized course load. Additionally, the school integrates experiential learning and technology across its curriculum to address academic, social, physical, and emotional development.

The school’s IB curriculum serves as a passport for students to pursue post-secondary education at leading universities worldwide. Graduates are prepared for global success through the rigorous IB Diploma Programme and the Personalized Pathway Program, which allows for flexible course selection while maintaining the IB standard. The school also provides dedicated university counselling to support students in their post-secondary transitions.

The Student Wellbeing team provides comprehensive support to students from JK to Grade 12, including social workers, learning strategists, and a registered nurse. This team works with individual students, groups, parents, and teachers to develop social-emotional skills and academic strategies. The school emphasizes small class sizes and individual attention to identify and address specific academic challenges and strengths.

The York School accepts applications for students from JK to Grade 12, with an application deadline of December 1, 2025, for the 2026-27 academic year. Prospective families are encouraged to submit an inquiry via the YorkNet portal to schedule campus tours and access the online application. The admissions process includes opportunities to attend virtual information sessions and in-person open houses to engage with faculty, staff, and student ambassadors.

The school operates on a cycle-day schedule for its Middle and Senior School divisions. The academic year includes various community events, athletic seasons, and student life initiatives, with specific dates for admissions events, such as open houses and virtual information sessions, scheduled throughout the fall and winter terms.

The York School operates two urban campuses in midtown Toronto near St. Clair Avenue. The Junior School (JK–Grade 5) at 1639 Yonge Street includes a gymnasium, art and music rooms, a cafeteria, and an outdoor classroom, with renovations underway to add a second gymnasium, STEAM learning spaces, and a larger dining hall by August 2026. The Middle and Senior School campus (Grades 6–12) at 1320 Yonge Street features specialized science labs, a library, a fitness centre, a drama room, an athletic commons, and the Leigh Family Centre for Wellbeing.

The school offers a wide array of co-curricular clubs and community initiatives designed to round out the student experience. Students participate in spirit houses, awareness campaigns, and various clubs that foster engagement and relationship-building. Additionally, the school maintains a robust athletic program with 48 competitive teams, including soccer, basketball, volleyball, cross-country, and flag football, with many teams competing in CISAA and OFSAA championships.