J. Addison School vs Upper Canada College

	J J. Addison School Toronto, Canada	U Upper Canada College Toronto, Canada
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year CA$20,950 - 29,300	Fees / year CA$138 - 48,720
Age range	Age range 4 - 18 years	Age range 5 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)	Type Boys School, Boys School (boarding)
Curriculum	Curriculum Canadian Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Canadian Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 250	Pupils 1,280
Typical class size	Typical class size 15	Typical class size 22
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened —	Opened 1829
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location 2 Valleywood Drive, Markham, Ontario, Canada L3R 8H3. Located in Markham, in the Greater Toronto Area. On-site boarding is available in Erie Hall for Grades 7–12 (Simcoe Hall is off-site); dormitory services include 24/7 security and meals.	Location Toronto, Ontario, Canada. UCC is located on 35 acres of green space in midtown Toronto. The main campus address is 200 Lonsdale Road, Toronto, Ontario M4V 1W6. The closest intersection is Avenue Road and St. Clair Avenue, with the campus served by TTC bus routes #13 and #142 and stops at the south and east campus gates; the closest subway is Davisville Station.
Stages	Stages JASX Early Learning (ages 3-6); Elementary Program (Grades 1-8); High School Program (Grades 9-12). Boarding program for Grades 7–12.	Stages Junior Kindergarten through Year 12
School type	School type Private day and boarding school	School type Independent day school for boys; IB World School
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support ESL courses; international student orientation; guidance including pathway planning; academic counselling; evening academic support	Additional learning support Wernham West Centre for Learning offers targeted, individualized support for Prep and Upper School; four mandates guide its work: identify each student's learning profile; provide individualized learning support; offer professional development for faculty; and connect with external networks.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Canada	Country affiliation Canada
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure —	School day structure The After School Program provides supervised care from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., with a snack, homework assistance and a range of clubs and activities.
Bus service details	Bus service details —	Bus service details Bus service is provided via TTC routes #13 and #142, with stops at the south and east campus gates; the closest subway is Davisville Station.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application & Registration Fees - Application fee: CAD 300 (non-refundable). - Registration fee (new-student registration): CAD 1,000. Tuition fees by program and year group (per school year) - Early Learning Program (Ages 3–5), 5 full days (9:00 AM–4:00 PM): CAD 18,000 per school year. Registration fee CAD 1,000; Application fee CAD 300. Extended care (Before & After School 8:00–9:00 and 4:00–5:00): CAD 230 per month (20% discount if paid annually). Optional lunch plan: CAD 1,650 per school year or CAD 180 per month. Optional medical insurance for international students: CAD 700 annually. - Elementary (Grades 1–3): CAD 18,000 per school year. Application fee CAD 300 + Registration fee CAD 1,000 (non-refundable). Mandatory and optional ancillary charges noted below. - Elementary (Grades 4–6): CAD 20,000 per school year. Application fee CAD 300 + Registration fee CAD 1,000 (non-refundable). Mandatory and optional ancillary charges noted below. - Elementary (Grades 7–8): CAD 22,000 per school year. Application fee CAD 300 + Registration fee CAD 1,000 (non-refundable). Mandatory and optional ancillary charges noted below. - Secondary Day (Grades 9–12): CAD 25,500 per school year (9:00 AM–3:00 PM). Application fee CAD 300 + Registration fee CAD 1,000 (non-refundable). Mandatory lunch plan for high school: CAD 2,500 per school year. Optional medical insurance for international students: CAD 700 annually. (Note: tuition figures above are stated as per school year amounts. A formal termized breakdown is not provided in the published fee schedule; payment timing and installment options are described below.) Boarding (Dormitory) fees and related charges - Boarding/dormitory fee (Grades 7–12; includes 3 meals): CAD 22,500 per school year. - Boarding incidental deposit: CAD 1,000 (refundable at the end of the program; unused funds returned subject to dormitory refund procedures). - Optional custodian arrangement (for boarding students): CAD 1,000. - Airport pick-up: arranged as an additional service (fees/details handled through Admissions). The dormitory closes for the annual two-week Winter Break and parents/guardians must make arrangements for students during that period. Dormitory incidental deposit refund claims must be submitted within six months of departure or the deposit may be forfeited. Other costs and ancillary fees - Mandatory/optional lunch plans as noted per program (examples: Early Learning optional lunch CAD 1,650/yr or CAD 180/mo; Grades 1–3 optional lunch CAD 1,650/yr or CAD 180/mo; Grades 4–6 lunch CAD 2,000/yr; Grades 7–8 lunch CAD 2,300/yr; Secondary mandatory CAD 2,500/yr). - Supplementary fees (may include textbooks, classroom materials, after-school clubs, field trips, specialty programs, events, and other activities). - Uniform fees. - Technology fees (used for IT infrastructure, hardware, software, repairs, and upgrades). - Optional medical insurance for international students: CAD 700 per year. - Extended-care fees for Early Learning: CAD 230 per month (Before & After School). Annual-payment discount of 20% available for extended care when paid annually with advance notice. Billing schedule and payment terms - Currency: All published fees are stated in Canadian dollars (CAD). Payment methods accepted: major debit or credit cards, wire transfer to the school's bank account, and Flywire. - Installment plan for Canadian day students: pay 20% of tuition + all other fees + a CAD 300 handling fee at time of application; the remaining 80% is paid via eight post-dated cheques dated 1 October through 1 May. A Monthly Installment Payment Plan is available for Canadian students for certain programs. Dormitory fees not paid at the same time as tuition during initial registration may incur extra service fees. Refunds, deposits and related policies - General refund stance: There are no refunds under other circumstances including when a student decides not to pursue studies after reserving a spot or when a student is expelled for disciplinary reasons. Credits may be issued if a student defers studies or the dormitory program. - International-student visa denial: When a study-permit/visa application is refused, a copy of the rejection letter must be submitted; the school will issue a full refund of fees paid except for the CAD 300 Application Fee and the CAD 1,000 Registration Fee. Refund processing requires up to 30 business days. If a program has already started and a visa is subsequently denied, only unused tuition fees will be refunded. There are no refunds on previously paid fees if a student's immigration status in Canada changes. - Dormitory incidental deposit (CAD 1,000) is refundable at the end of the program; unused funds will be returned subject to the school's dormitory refund/claim procedures and time limits. Summary of key numeric fees (all amounts in CAD) - Application fee: CAD 300 (non-refundable). Registration fee: CAD 1,000. - Early Learning (5 days): CAD 18,000 / year; Extended care CAD 230 / month. Optional lunch CAD 1,650 / year. - Grades 1–3: CAD 18,000 / year. Grades 4–6: CAD 20,000 / year. Grades 7–8: CAD 22,000 / year. Ancillary lunch charges vary by grade (CAD 1,650–2,300 / year). - Secondary Day (Grades 9–12): CAD 25,500 / year; mandatory high-school lunch CAD 2,500 / year. - Boarding (Grades 7–12): CAD 22,500 / year (3 meals included); boarding incidental deposit CAD 1,000 refundable; optional custodian arrangement CAD 1,000. - Optional international medical insurance: CAD 700 / year. Supplementary/technology/uniform fees apply as described above.	Fee details Application & Registration Fees - Application fee (new students): CAD 200 if submitted on or before November 1; CAD 300 if submitted after November 1 (boarding follows the same schedule). - Initial Registration Fee (new students): Day students CAD 10,000; Boarding students CAD 7,500. This fee is one-time and non-refundable. - Financial-assistance application fee (third-party assessment): CAD 137.50 (paid to the assessment provider). Annual Tuition — Day students (2026–27) - Junior Kindergarten–Year 5: CAD 44,940 (annual). - Year 6–Year 10: CAD 46,730 (annual). - Year 11–Year 12: CAD 48,720 (annual). Annual Tuition — Boarding students (2026–27) - Domestic boarding (Canadian passport required): - Years 8–10: CAD 81,280 (annual). - Years 11–12: CAD 83,270 (annual). - International boarding (non-Canadian citizens): - Years 8–10: CAD 87,580 (annual). - Years 11–12: CAD 89,570 (annual). Billing schedule and payment terms (standard billing and common payment plans) - Registration and deposits: - New Day students: online registration must be completed and the Initial Registration Fee (CAD 10,000) plus the first instalment required to complete registration. - New Boarding students: online registration must be completed within 7 calendar days of an offer; the Initial Registration Fee (CAD 7,500) and the first instalment of tuition and boarding fees must be forwarded within 7 calendar days of the offer. - Standard payment plans (examples of the formats used): - Plan A — Term instalments: initial deposit followed by two instalments (typical due dates: one mid-year and one later in the year). For Day students the initial deposit is CAD 2,000; remaining tuition is split into two payments. Monthly statements are issued and amounts must be paid by the last banking day of the month to avoid interest. - Plan B — Monthly instalments: initial deposit (Day students CAD 2,000) followed by 11 monthly automatic debits. New families will be asked to provide banking information for pre-authorized withdrawals. - Plan C — Early payment: full payment by the early-payment deadline in order to receive an early-payment discount (payment must be made in full by the stated deadline). - Typical instalment examples calculated from the published 2026–27 annual tuition figures (amounts shown are the instalment values a family would be billed under Plan A or Plan B for Day students): - JK–Year 5 (annual CAD 44,940): - Plan A (term-style): CAD 2,000 deposit, then two instalments of CAD 21,470 and CAD 21,470. - Plan B (monthly): CAD 2,000 deposit, then 11 monthly payments of approximately CAD 3,903.64. - Year 6–10 (annual CAD 46,730): - Plan A: CAD 2,000 deposit, then two instalments of CAD 22,365 and CAD 22,365. - Plan B: CAD 2,000 deposit, then 11 monthly payments of approximately CAD 4,066.36. - Year 11–12 (annual CAD 48,720): - Plan A: CAD 2,000 deposit, then two instalments of CAD 23,360 and CAD 23,360. - Plan B: CAD 2,000 deposit, then 11 monthly payments of approximately CAD 4,247.27. - Boarding instalment examples (registration fee separate): for boarding families the Initial Registration Fee is CAD 7,500; many boarding accounts are invoiced in two instalments across the year. Approximate splits of annual boarding tuition (examples): - Domestic Years 8–10 (annual CAD 81,280): two instalments of approximately CAD 40,640 and CAD 40,640. - Domestic Years 11–12 (annual CAD 83,270): two instalments of approximately CAD 41,635 and CAD 41,635. - International Years 8–10 (annual CAD 87,580): two instalments of approximately CAD 43,790 and CAD 43,790. - International Years 11–12 (annual CAD 89,570): two instalments of approximately CAD 44,785 and CAD 44,785. - Billing, statements and late payments: - Monthly statements of account are prepared and emailed to families. Payments may be made by online bill payment using major Canadian financial institutions; families should use the student ID number as the account number. Payments must be received and negotiable by the last banking day of the month to avoid interest charges. The late payment interest rate is 1.5% per month (18% per annum). The College reserves the right to restrict re-enrollment or access to records for accounts more than 30 days overdue. Boarding-specific fees and common additional boarding costs - Initial Registration Fee for new boarding students: CAD 7,500 (non-refundable). - Guardianship program (for international students without a local guardian): CAD 1,500 annual. - Health insurance (where applicable and billed when the school provides coverage): approximately CAD 1,200 annual for boarding students. - Boarding families should budget for discretionary personal costs such as dry cleaning, local transit and pocket money; these are not included in boarding tuition. Other costs and typical incidental charges - Uniform: - First-year uniform purchase (estimate): CAD 750–850. - Annual replacement/ongoing uniform costs: approximately CAD 300 per year. - Textbooks and school supplies: - Books (Years 8–12): approximately CAD 800–1,200 per year depending on year level. - School supplies: approximately CAD 300 per year. - Meal plan (optional/where applicable): around CAD 1,600–1,850 per year (may be billed over terms). - Tuition Refund Insurance (optional): premiums are charged as a percentage or fixed rate depending on the program and coverage; example premium rates and fees are shown on the financial materials and are billed to accounts if selected (example premiums in prior materials: CAD 350–380 for day and CAD 650 for boarding; the plan premium is typically shown as a small percentage of fees when selected). - Co-curricular and activity charges (examples): athletic tournament costs, travel, team fees, music festivals, equipment rental, private music lessons, academic support and other event-specific charges; typical ranges appear in the school's financial handbook (examples: athletic tournaments CAD 400; team travel CAD 100–1,700 depending on distance; private music instruction CAD 44 per half hour; academic support CAD 85 per hour). Incidental charges are billed only where applicable. - Transcripts/courier fees and other administrative charges may be billed when required (examples listed: CAD 35 local to CAD 75 international). Refunds, withdrawal and tuition-refund arrangements - The Initial Registration Fee is non-refundable under any circumstances. Families should expect the annual tuition obligation to be in effect for the full academic year; fees are not billed on a term-by-term basis. Specific forfeiture rules apply if a student withdraws before the academic year begins or after specified dates. Typical provisions include forfeiture of portions of paid instalments if withdrawal occurs between specified dates; if withdrawal occurs on or after the start of the academic year, all tuition and boarding fees are due and will not be refunded. Tuition Refund Insurance is offered as an optional insurance product to protect against the financial consequences of withdrawal for covered reasons; premiums are charged on enrollment in the plan and are not refundable. Accepted payment methods and instructions - Online bill payment through major Canadian banks (use the student's ID number as the account number). - Automatic monthly pre-authorized debits (for families on the monthly instalment plan). - Third-party credit-card payment provider (Plastiq) may be used for one-off payments (subject to third-party terms). - Cheque payments: payable to Upper Canada College and mailed to the Finance Office (address provided on account statements). - Wire transfers from financial institutions outside Canada: wire instructions, including bank name, account number and SWIFT code, are provided by the College for families who choose to pay by international bank transfer; families should include the student name and ID number in payment details. Important account terms - Registrations are not complete until the required registration fee and initial instalment are received. Payments must be negotiable by the last banking day of the month to avoid interest charges. The College reserves rights to withhold access to classes, activities, transcripts and re-enrollment for accounts not paid in accordance with agreed schedules. Interest on overdue balances is applied at 1.5% per month (18% per year). (End of fee overview.)
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements Boarding is available for Grades 7–12. There are three residence halls—Erie Hall, Simcoe Hall (co-ed), and Huron Hall (all-male)—with shared rooms (same gender and similar age) and bathrooms in each room; dorms are monitored and secured 24/7. The program includes live-in residence staff, academic support, organized weekend trips, three meals daily, and complimentary airport pickup on first arrival.	Boarding arrangements Boarding begins in Year 8; main entry years 9–11; Year 12 is not admitted. The boarding program houses about 86 students from Ontario, other Canadian provinces and more than 18 countries. The boarding program has existed since 1829.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement All students enrolled in the School must wear the school uniform during the school day.	Uniform requirement Uniforms include a crested blazer; 2–3 grey flannel pants; 2–3 khaki, beige or tan cotton pants; Gym T-shirts; UCC navy crested golf shirts; House and school ties; and a crested sweater or fleece. All uniform items can be purchased online.
Food options	Food options Three nutritious meals are served daily in the cafeteria, with an international variety; day and boarding students dine in the cafeteria inside the main building.	Food options Boarders have breakfast, lunch and dinner during the school week; weekends include brunch and dinner at designated times. When dining is closed, the milk and toast room provides light meals and the cafeteria is open during the school day.
House system	House system —	House system Upper School has 10 Houses, each with a Head and its own tie. Day students belong to Bremner's, Howard's, Jackson's, Martland's, McHugh's, Mowbray's, Orr's and Scadding's; boarders belong to Seaton's and Wedd's.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The Principal operates under the direction of the J. Addison Board of Directors.	Governance and ownership The Board of Governors (15 members) establishes policy and oversees finances; eight are appointed for four-year terms, three are elected by the UCC Association for three-year terms, and four are ex-officio; the Principal reports to the Board and the President of the UCC Foundation attends all meetings. The UCC Foundation is a separate, independent entity that manages the College's endowment, and the Association Council represents Old Boys, parents, governors and staff.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details J. Addison School offers a K-12 program with Early Learning (ages 3.8 to 6), Elementary (Grades 1 to 8), Secondary (Grades 9 to 12), and a Boarding Program (Grades 7 to 12). The Addison Advantage combines personalized support, technology-enabled learning, and a five-period day that includes a Focus for Success period. Summer Programs and the International Family Settlement Assistance (IFSA) Program are available. University Partnerships provide exclusive campus tours, on-site recruitment sessions, scholarships, and personalized application support with partner Canadian universities such as York University, Wilfrid Laurier University, Toronto Metropolitan University, and Trent University. The school emphasizes an inclusive environment that fosters cooperative learning, intelligence, creativity, and innovation, guided by the motto Our Students' Success Is Our Success.	Curriculum details The school has the IB Continuum: Primary Years Programme JK to Year 5; Middle Years Programme Year 6 to Year 10; Diploma Programme Year 11 to Year 12. The Diploma Programme has been offered for more than 20 years. In September 2024, two Graduation Pathways complemented the IB Diploma Programme. The Middle Years Programme includes eight subject groups, taught with a focus on inquiry and through the lens of key concepts and global contexts, and Sustained learning in more than one language. The IB Programmes focus on developing independent, globally minded learners with skills such as critical thinking and the ability to apply knowledge in real-world contexts.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio 1:15 teacher to student ratio.	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results Three J. Addison School students placed in the top 25% of the Canadian Senior Mathematics Contest 2025: Grade 12 students Jason J. and Victor C. L., and Grade 10 student Tony C., earning the Certificate of Distinction; Jason J. also earned a Contest Medal.	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression The school has University Partnerships with York University, Wilfrid Laurier University, Toronto Metropolitan University, and Trent University, offering exclusive campus tours, on-site recruitment sessions, personalized application support, and scholarship opportunities for eligible students.	Higher education progression Graduates earn IB and Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) diplomas and gain admission to top-tier universities around the world, with many receiving scholarships and university credit for advanced courses.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented Focus for Success™ (FFS) is a dedicated program with a five-period day that provides extra academic support, including ESL, tutoring, small-group study, and a range of extracurricular activities. The FFS period is mandatory for all Elementary and Secondary students and is designed to enrich learning and support individualized student pathways.	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning Character Development Education is central to social and emotional learning at J. Addison School. It promotes universal attributes in all school activities and celebrates character development monthly with Virtue of the Month and Citizenship in Action initiatives that foster volunteerism and social justice awareness, contributing to an inclusive, respectful, safe and caring school community.	Social & emotional learning Safety and wellbeing are the highest priorities. Horizons provides tutoring and mentoring across Years 8–12, fostering empathy, respect and community through eight‑week programs and school partnerships. Service and service‑learning help boys understand their identities and contributions to the world.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) ESL support is available with fully trained ESL teachers and staff, and several ESL resources are accessible through the Focus For Success program, including ESL, TOEFL preparation, and literacy support. AP courses include an Individual Education Plan (IEP) outlining accommodations and teaching strategies unique to AP coursework.	Special educational needs (SEN) The Wernham West Centre for Learning offers targeted, customized support with a tiered approach to learning challenges. In the Prep School, lessons include time management and study and organizational strategies; in the Upper School, the focus is on independent learning with emphasis on note‑taking, deep reading and exam‑preparation support. Four mandates guide the Centre: identify each student's learning style and develop strategies for success; provide individualized learning support; provide professional development and support for faculty and be a resource to parents and the community; connect with other schools and organizations to collaborate and build networks.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language ESL support is available to all students, with programs designed for ESL learners, dedicated ESL teachers and support staff, and language development resources; the Focus For Success program provides English training, IELTS preparation, and literacy support.	English as an additional language There is no English Language Learning program; language support is provided through the Wernham West Centre for Learning.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental well-being is identified as a key component of student welfare. The boarding program notes four factors—Emotional, Social, Physical and Mental Well-being—and the Focus For Success program provides tutoring and academic support, contributing to students' mental well-being.	Mental wellbeing Safety and wellbeing are the highest priorities. Two health centres are staffed with nurses, a psychologist and counsellors to support students.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Safeguarding the interests and safety of students is part of the boarding program through regular communication and meetings with parents and guardians, with residence counsellors providing care and oversight to ensure a safe living environment.	Safeguarding The College has a Policy and Procedures for Preventing, Identifying and Investigating Harassment, Abuse and Violence, and employees are trained in standards and boundaries for working with children.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The campus is a 58,000-square-foot building in Markham, Ontario, with modern art classrooms, a gymnasium, a dance studio, a cafeteria, dormitory residences, a library, and a Science Laboratory.	Facilities overview The UCC campus covers 35 acres of green space in midtown Toronto. The extensive facilities include a double-pad arena with NHL- and Olympic-sized rinks, a fitness complex, tennis courts, a swimming pool, a recital hall, a theatre, film and computer labs, music studios with professional recording equipment, and state-of-the-art science labs. The William P. Wilder Arena & Sports Complex and the Oval provide NHL- and Olympic-sized ice surfaces and a 400-metre track. Design and learning spaces include Atkins Design Lab, Holmes Project Lab and Hixon Family Design Lab, plus Harkness Tables and prep classrooms. Wilder and Macintosh Libraries support the academic program with print and digital resources.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The indoor gymnasium is air-conditioned and includes a high school- and college-sized basketball court, four badminton courts, a volleyball court, and student bleachers. The 1,400-square-foot Dance Studio has a Rosco Adagio dance floor and mirrors.	Sports facilities The facilities support 19 sports and 85 interscholastic teams. They include two indoor hockey arenas (NHL and Olympic), a SAS Fitness Centre with a full-time trainer, two indoor tennis courts, four outdoor tennis courts, a baseball diamond, four softball diamonds, six soccer fields, a cricket field, four basketball/volleyball courts, eight badminton courts, a sports injury clinic, a football/lacrosse/rugby artificial turf field, an indoor pool, and a 400-metre all-weather track.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Academic facilities include a library and a Science Laboratory, with large and modern art classrooms on campus.	Academic facilities The Wernham West Centre for Learning is an innovative and unique learning-support resource that provides targeted and customized support for every learner. At the Preparatory School level, students receive lessons in time management and study strategies; at the Upper School, the focus is on independence, note-taking, deep reading and exam preparation. The Centre supports faculty through professional development and connects with other schools and organizations. Wilder Library offers print and digital resources, in-library volumes and access to online catalogs; Macintosh Library serves the Upper School with a curated collection and databases, including the Heintzman Music Library Collection, and supports research with a range of resources. The libraries program emphasizes collaboration with faculty, collection development, and service to the UCC community. State-of-the-art labs and design spaces, including Atkins Design Lab, Holmes Project Lab and Hixon Family Design Lab, support hands-on learning across subjects.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities A range of extracurricular activities is offered, including orientation for new residents, monthly birthday parties, shopping days, weekend trips to Canadian historical and cultural attractions, and various sports and team-building activities.	Extra curricular facilities The Experiences beyond the classroom include sport teams such as Cross Country, Badminton, Baseball, Basketball, Cricket, Field Hockey, Football, Golf, Hockey, Lacrosse, Rugby, Soccer, Softball, Squash, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field, and Volleyball. Prep co-curriculars include community service initiatives, morning programs, student ambassadors, debating, prep times Yearbook, Fall Play, Spring Musical, Sprouts/Prep Green Team, Eco-Ambassadors, and music ensembles like Choir and Concert and Jazz Band. Prep after-school programs offer activities including chess, robotics, cooking, drawing, photography, and space club. Upper School clubs exceed 60 active groups, including Art & Architecture, Debating, Engineering, Model UN, Outdoors, Robotics, and World Affairs Conference, plus music ensembles such as Blue Notes, String Ensemble, Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Concert Band and Jazz Ensemble.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History J. Addison School has operated for 20 years in Markham, Ontario, as a private K-12 school. It is located at 2 Valleywood Drive, Markham, Ontario L3R 8H3. The Addison Advantage provides Early Learning, Elementary (Grades 1–8), Secondary (Grades 9–12), and a Boarding Program for Grades 7–12. The Addison Advantage emphasizes a Safe and Inclusive Learning Environment, personalized guidance, and technology-integrated teaching. A rooftop solar system was introduced to advance sustainability.	History Upper Canada College was founded in 1829 by Sir John Colborne, the Lieutenant-Governor of Upper Canada. It was created as a feeder school for King's College (later the University of Toronto) and was modelled after the public schools of Britain. It is one of the earliest institutions for secondary education in Ontario, with traditions dating back nearly two centuries. These roots reflect UCC's longstanding role in Canadian education.
Community	Community J. Addison School maintains an active community life with an events calendar and a broad range of extracurricular activities. Early Learning and Elementary programs include field trips to the Ontario Science Center and Toronto Zoo, and seasonal celebrations such as Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Secondary students participate in sports, Student Council, Leadership Camp, and competitions, while Boarding students engage in social activities and trips such as Niagara Falls, Open Mic/Karaoke Night, and other excursions. The Addison Advantage pillars emphasize transparent parent–school communications and regular updates to families.	Community The College organizes programs, events and initiatives to keep the community connected to the College and to one another. The World Affairs Conference is North America's largest and Canada's oldest annual student-run current events conference. Other events include the Founder's Dinner, Coxford Lecture and Norval Maple Madness Open House.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association —	Parent teacher association Association Council represents the interests of Old Boys, parents, members of the Board of Governors and the UCC Foundation, faculty and staff, and other community members with demonstrated interest in the College. The Council is a governing body with 21 elected council members and eight ex-officio members. Officers include the President, Vice-President(s), Secretary, Executive Director and Managing Director. The Council meets three times per year in addition to its annual general meeting, held in October.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The Ontario curriculum is followed and credits are earned for compulsory and elective courses, with 40 hours of unpaid community involvement required for graduation. The AP program offers over 30 subjects, including Art, Biology, Calculus, Chemistry, Chinese Language, Computer Science, Economics, English, Environmental Science, French, German, Government and Politics, History, Human Geography, Italian, Japanese, Latin, Music Theory, Physics, Psychology, Spanish, and Statistics; Grades 9–11 are Pre-AP and Grade 12 is the AP year. ESL support is provided through the Focus for Success program, and IELTS testing is available on site. A dedicated guidance team coordinates university admissions with local and international university partners, and the school reports a 100% post-secondary admission rate.	Academic & intellectual Prep Co-Curriculars include Community Service Initiatives, Morning Greeters, Morning Announcements, and Student Ambassadors, along with Colour House Captains and Debating. The Prep program also offers Fall Play, Spring Musical, Sprouts/Prep Green Team and Eco-Ambassadors/Warriors. Upper School Clubs total more than 60 active clubs, including Debating, Model UN, DECA, Engineering, International Languages, Investment, Mathematics Society and Robotics. These clubs provide opportunities for academic enrichment, competitions and leadership roles.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative —	Arts & creative Prep School Music Ensembles include Choir, Concert and Jazz Band, Concert Band and Jazz Ensemble. Prep After-School Programs include Chess, Cooking, Drawing/Comic Books Club, Public Speaking, Robotics, Photography and Space Club. Prep School theatre is represented by Fall Play and Spring Musical. Upper School Music Ensembles include Blue Notes, String Ensemble, Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Concert Band and Jazz Ensemble, plus Intermediate and Junior Stage Bands.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language —	Cultural & language Upper School Clubs include International Languages. World Affairs Conference is North America's largest and Canada's oldest annual student-run current events conference. Language and global affairs activities are available through these clubs, fostering cross-cultural understanding and engagement with international topics.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Elite Boys & Girls Basketball teams are available. Summer Camp 2026 offers Day & Boarding programs for children ages 5 to 16. The school emphasizes growth in intellectual, social, and personal areas.	Social & hobbies Upper School Clubs include Break Dancing, Chess, Cooking, Creative Writing, Debating, DECA, Engineering, Outdoors, Robotics and more. Prep After-School Programs include Chess, Public Speaking, Robotics, Photography, Space Club and other hands-on pursuits. A wide range of recreational activities and hobby groups supplement regular academics, with numerous clubs and programs available after school. Athletics-related after-school options include multi-sport and individual activities aligned with the school's broad sports program.
Community & service	Community & service All students must complete a minimum of 40 hours of unpaid community involvement activities before graduating. Students choose activities within guidelines with ongoing support from the administration.	Community & service Prep Co-Curriculars include Community Service Initiatives. Horizons is listed as a Student Life program. Norval Outdoor School is an integral part of learning at UCC, offering outdoor education at a 450-acre site outside Toronto and hosting community open-house events as part of campus life.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Residence Leadership Team is a student governing body within the residences. Members are selected by staff based on leadership and communication potential. They develop student-led residence programming, manage a monthly newsletter, discuss school policies, and earn volunteering hours and professional development opportunities.	Leadership & professional Student Ambassadors are part of Prep Co-Curriculars, and Colour House Captains provide leadership roles. Upper School Clubs include Debating, Model UN and DECA, which offer leadership development and professional-skill opportunities. Additional leadership pathways exist through other clubs such as Investment and Public Speaking within the Upper School.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing The Residence Life Program emphasizes four factors: Emotional, Social, Physical, and Mental Well-being. Workshops address issues such as bullying, peer-pressure, stress management, and healthy expression. Boarding students participate in organized outdoor trips and sports tournaments as part of a holistic care approach.	Lifestyle & wellbeing UCC offers 19 different sports and 45 interscholastic teams. A broad athletic program includes Cross Country, Football, Hockey, Lacrosse, Soccer, Basketball, and many more. Norval Outdoor School is a 450-acre nature reserve outside Toronto and a core part of outdoor education, with Weeks of wilderness learning by Year 9. The After School Program features activities like Badminton, Ball Hockey, Baseball, Basketball, Chess, Photography, and Space Club, among others.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision ESL (English as a Second Language) programs are available for international students, with IELTS language test preparation included. ESL is offered during the school year, and placement testing occurs at orientation for new international students. French is taught as a language subject in the Elementary Program (Grades 1-8) and is part of High School credits (OSSD). The school follows the Ontario curriculum for Elementary and High School (Grades 1-12), and the Early Learning program serves ages 3-6.	Language provision —
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations IB World School (Continuum) — Offers the full IB continuum (Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and Diploma Programme).
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions Start your journey at J. Addison School with these steps. Step 1: Prepare the required documents before applying: the applicant's latest original academic record or last two years of report cards scanned in PDF or JPG, the passport ID page scanned in PDF or JPG, a student photograph in JPG or PNG, the updated immunization record scanned in PDF or JPG, and any other supporting documents scanned in PDF or JPG. Submit the online application form and pay the 300 non-refundable application fee by cheque, cash, credit card, or via Flywire. These items initiate the admissions review. Step 2: You will be contacted for an interview, if necessary, as part of the review process. Step 3: If accepted, a Pre-Admission Letter will be sent. The Pre-Admission Letter confirms acceptance and provides next steps. Step 4: Remit tuition fees as directed in the Pre-Admission Letter. Payment methods include cheque, cash, credit card, or via Flywire. Step 5: Once tuition is received, a Welcome Package including the official Letter of Acceptance, receipt of payment, and other relevant documents will be sent. Step 6: If you are an international student, apply for a student visa at your nearest Canadian Consulate and notify the school as soon as the visa is approved. Step 7: Purchase your flight ticket and notify the school of your arrival date and time. The school can coordinate airport pickup and accommodations if requested. Step 8: Remember to bring all necessary original documentation to support your identity and student visa. Step 9: Assessment tests, if necessary, will be conducted at the school before the start of the school program.	Admissions Step 1 — Submit an application. To start your application for 2026 entry, the candidate must log in to or create a UCC application account. The candidate's legal name should match the birth certificate or passport. Only the candidate's parents may create the account; agents wishing to submit on behalf of a family should contact the Office of Admission before creating an account. Day student applications for the 2026–27 academic year are closed; Boarding applications are open. The school invites families to submit an inquiry to receive updates and register for events; for the 2026 intake, apply by November 1, 2025 and applications are accepted until December 1, 2025; the application fee is $200 until November 1, 2025 and $300 from November 2 to December 1, 2025.
Scholarships	Scholarships Tomorrow's Thinkers Scholarship provides financial support—up to full tuition—to make private education accessible. Eligibility criteria include being a domestic elementary student entering J. Addison School, maintaining a strong academic record, understanding AI and its potential impact, and exhibiting forward-thinking problem-solving skills; applicants must hold Canadian Permanent Residency or Citizenship. Award details include a financial award applied toward tuition, access to mentorship opportunities and participation in AI-focused workshops or projects, and recognition as a Tomorrow's Thinker. Application requirements are Academic Records (transcript or report card from the two most recent years), Short Essay or Video, Letter of Recommendation, and an Optional Personal Statement. Contact information and an apply-now link are provided by the admissions team.	Scholarships Lang National Scholarship — An opportunity for exceptional Canadian scholar-athletes to access a fully funded UCC boarding experience. What is it? A merit-based boarding scholarship and a direct-entry pathway to the Lang Scholar Program, which includes leadership training and conferences, guest speakers, alumni mentorship and service projects. Who should apply? Exceptional Canadian students with a strong academic record, varsity-level skills in two sports, impeccable character, leadership potential and service orientation (Grade 9 to 11). What does it cover? UCC tuition and boarding fees, including housing and meals, university counselling and health centre services; incidentals such as flights home at major breaks and unique athletic needs. How do I apply? Complete the UCC boarding application and indicate interest in the Lang National Scholarship. Merit-based entrance scholarships — The school offers merit-based entrance scholarships to top applicants, awarded automatically to those who demonstrate high academic achievement, co-curricular experience or potential, and strong character. Financial assistance is also available on the basis of family need, with the Financial Assistance Review Committee (FARC) and partner organizations determining awards. Financial assistance — The school provides about $6 million in financial assistance each year and operates a needs-based admission process. Application for financial assistance is separate from admission; eligible Year 5 and above families are encouraged to apply. The process uses Apple Financial Services and Financial Aid for Canadian Students (FACS); the FARC makes the final award decisions, and most assistance is need-based, with merit-based entrance scholarships offered to top applicants. New student financial assistance applications must be completed by December 31 (and for returning students by November 14).
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist —
	View full profile →	View full profile →