The Bishop Strachan School vs Upper Canada College

	T The Bishop Strachan School Toronto, Canada	U Upper Canada College Toronto, Canada
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year CA$500 - 86,000	Fees / year CA$138 - 48,720
Age range	Age range 5 - 18 years	Age range 5 - 18 years
Type	Type Girls School, Girls School (boarding)	Type Boys School, Boys School (boarding)
Curriculum	Curriculum Canadian Curriculum, Advanced Placement (AP)	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Canadian Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 950	Pupils 1,280
Typical class size	Typical class size 18	Typical class size 22
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1867	Opened 1829
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location 298 Lonsdale Road, Toronto, Ontario M4V 1X2, Canada	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 JK–Grade 12	Stages Junior Kindergarten through Year 12
School type	School type Private all-girls 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 Learning Specialists provide individualized academic support; School Psychologist provides psychological and mental health support; Learning Resource Centre (LRC) offers accommodations for students with IEPs, assistive technology, language resources and skill-building support, plus drop-in tutoring.	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 - Registration fee (one-time, non-refundable): CAD 10,000 for all students (day and boarding). - Continuing deposit (refundable): CAD 500. Tuition fees by student type — academic year 2026/27 - Day students (annual tuition): CAD 43,800. - Canadian boarders (annual tuition including boarding): CAD 82,200. - International boarders (annual tuition including boarding): CAD 86,000. - Health insurance for non-Canadian residents (annual): CAD 694 (applies to international boarders/residents where noted). Per-term amounts and year-group detail - The published fee schedule lists the annual tuition amounts above for the 2026/27 school year; the school's standard fee references are given as annual totals. - Junior School note: lunches and snacks for Junior School students are included in the Junior School tuition. Billing schedule and payment terms - The registration fee is charged once and is non-refundable; the continuing deposit is refundable as stated above. - Detailed billing schedules, payment deadlines, and the enrolment-related billing communications are provided to families through the school's enrolment and parent communications/portal during the acceptance and re-enrolment process. Boarding fees (where applicable) - Boarding tuition is presented above as a single annual figure for Canadian boarders (CAD 82,200) and international boarders (CAD 86,000); the listed boarding totals reflect the published annual charge for boarders for 2026/27. Health insurance for non-Canadian residents is CAD 694. Other costs and typical additional fees - School uniform: CAD 300–800 depending on grade and whether items are new or used; uniforms are purchased through the school's General Store. - Additional variable costs: field trips, textbooks, course-specific materials, technology-related items and certain extracurricular activity costs may be charged in addition to tuition and will vary by grade and program. - Summer and short-course programs have separate fees and stated refund terms specific to those programs (examples: some Summer Academy course fees are refundable prior to program-specific deadlines, subject to administrative fees). Refund information - Continuing deposit: refundable (CAD 500). - Program-specific refunds: Summer Academy and other short-course tuition refunds are handled under program-specific deadlines and administrative fee conditions (for example, some summer programs permit refunds prior to May 1 or June 1 with specified administrative deductions). Fee payment options - The school provides families with payment instructions and the available payment methods as part of the enrolment and billing communications through the school's parent/enrolment portal and finance communications. Payment arrangements and schedules are managed through those enrolment/billing channels. Notes relevant to budgeting - Annual tuition amounts shown above are the published totals for the 2026/27 academic year. Uniforms, field trips, textbooks, technology, and certain course or trip fees are additional and vary by grade and program; Junior School tuition includes lunches and snacks. Continuing deposit and registration-fee conditions are as stated 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 offered for Grade 8–12; boarders live on campus in boarding residences; boarders come from around the world. There are 70 boarders living on campus, 12 countries represented, and 100% of boarders are accepted to their university of choice.	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 wear a school uniform, which can be purchased from the BSS General Store; the uniform cost ranges from CAD 300 to CAD 800 depending on grade and whether items are new or used.	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 Boarders' Dining Room is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner; Junior School lunches and snacks are included in tuition.	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 school is governed by a Board of Governors that directs the core strategic plan, and a Board of Trustees that manages the Endowment and Foundation initiatives.	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 Junior School extends and enriches the Ontario Curriculum with a Reggio Emilia–inspired approach, enabling hands-on, inquiry-based learning where language, mathematics, science, social science, design technology, engineering, design thinking and research are integrated. Learning is supported by dedicated teachers for core subjects, with specialist instruction in French, music and physical education, plus access to the Junior School Learning Commons and Design Technology Lab. Grades 1–6 emphasize interdisciplinary connections, collaboration and real-world contexts to build foundational skills and confident learners. Grades 7 and 8 provide a broad preparation: humanities (English, history and geography), STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), French, physical education, visual arts and band/strings; accelerated math and French allow early Grade 9 credits, and a built-in Options program enriches the Ontario curriculum with additional experiences. Outdoor education is integrated, Chapel is held weekly, and social-emotional learning is emphasized through advisory structures and leadership opportunities. Grades 9 to 12 offer a comprehensive Ontario-based program with more than 100 credit courses, electives in business, technology and visual/media arts, and enrichment that elevates the Ontario curriculum; Advanced Placement is available (14 AP credits and AP Capstone Diploma), with university counselling guiding post-secondary planning; 100% of graduates are offered placement at top-tier universities.	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 —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results strong results in AP courses	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression All graduates are offered placement at top-tier universities. University Counselling uses a personalized approach beginning in Grades 7–8, with ongoing guidance as students tailor their post-secondary plans and prepare applications to Canada, the United States and beyond.	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 Advanced Placement offered with 14 AP credits and the AP Capstone Diploma; accelerated math and French programs in Grades 7–8.	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning Well-being is essential for learning and flourishing and is integrated into BSS from JK through Grade 12. The program is rooted in positive psychology and emphasizes agency, connection and resilience. It includes Circle of Care and a Tiered Support system to address students' needs, and is organized around seven well-being domains: Adaptable Mindset; Empathy and Compassion; Gratitude; Mindfulness; Self-Regulation; Kindness and Connection; and Character Strengths.	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) Learning Specialists provide individualized support. The Learning Resource Centre enhances learning skills, offers accommodations for students with Individual Education Plans, provides assistive technology and language resources, runs skill-building workshops, and includes a drop-in peer tutoring program.	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 Language resources are available through the Learning Resource Centre to support language development.	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 Well-Being Counsellors are experts in the social and emotional life of girls and provide one-on-one support and development of relevant programs. The School Psychologist provides psychological and mental health support. Well-being is addressed across academic, social-emotional, physical and spiritual dimensions.	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 Circle of Care centers the child in education and relies on continuous communication among parents and educators to support students' journeys. It responds to students' diverse identities and needs with parents integral to the network.	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 blends a 105-year-old building with gleaming modern learning spaces. The STEAM complex features open-concept classrooms designed to spark inquiry and collaboration. Two state-of-the-art theatres anchor the campus. The athletics footprint includes a Royal Gym with two gyms, two dance studios, a fitness studio and a turf field.	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 Royal Gym includes two gyms, two dance studios, a fitness studio and a turf field. The turf field enables extended seasons for field sports and provides a high-level training and competition space. A climbing wall supports PE programs.	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 The STEAM complex features open-concept classrooms designed to spark inquiry and collaboration. Junior School spaces are light-filled and ideal for collaborative, hands-on learning. The Learning Commons provides a large collection of books and learning resources for JK–12.	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 Arts and Athletics programs include Junior School Athletics, Middle and Senior School Athletics and the High Performance Athlete Program. Collaboration Commons hosts activities, learning and events throughout the year. Two state-of-the-art theatres support performing arts, and a climbing wall enhances physical 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 On the first day of school in 1867, The Bishop Strachan School opened its doors to educate girls and prepare them to lead. Rev. John Langtry founded the school as a Church School designed to provide a curriculum co-extensive with first-class schools and within reach of people of moderate means. There were 31 students in the first year. The school moved to the city's growing locations around College and Yonge, and later to its current property. Today, more than 150 years after its founding, BSS has over 900 students.	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 The school has a Parent Association that builds a welcoming community for all BSS families. Parent volunteers come from a wide range of professional and personal backgrounds. They are dedicated to enhancing school spirit and involvement and coordinate a broad program of inclusive initiatives and events across the school, involving students, employees, families and alumnae. News, events and volunteer opportunities are shared through the Parent Corner on myBSS, and involvement can be initiated by contacting communityengagement@bss.on.ca. 298 Lonsdale Road, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M4V 1X2 • (416) 483-4325.	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 The Parent Association serves as the school's primary parent organization, bringing together families, staff and alumnae to support BSS. The group relies on active parent volunteers who contribute to school life and ensure broad involvement across grade levels. It organizes inclusive initiatives and events throughout the year, engaging students, employees, families and alumnae in learning and community life. Information about opportunities to get involved is shared through the Parent Corner on myBSS, and inquiries can be directed to communityengagement@bss.on.ca. The school's address and main contact details are listed for inquiries via the Parents page.	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 Academic Groups include DECA, HOSA, Math Society, Mock Trial, Model United Nations, Robotics, Science Club, Science Olympiad and Speaker's Union. Co-curricular opportunities include the Global Ideas Institute, Global Hackathons and Experiential Career Workshops with Harvard Student Agencies. These activities foster collaboration, critical thinking and problem-solving beyond the classroom.	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 The arts are integrated from JK to Grade 12 with opportunities to learn a musical instrument, join a dance class, sing in a choir or take a role in a stage production. Arts programs cultivate creativity, critical thinking, resilience and well-being and connect with other subjects through interdisciplinary projects. In the Junior School, vocal and percussion skills are taught through Grade 5; Grade 6 adds instrumental music; the Junior Choir and the Fun Plus program offer opportunities for vocal, musical theatre and dance performances. A Director of the Arts leads a comprehensive program across the school with facilities that include theatres, studios and media and design labs.	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 Global learning provides leadership opportunities through trips and events that emphasize belonging, cultural competency and ethical citizenship. Reciprocal language exchanges and language immersion with Ermitage International School in France, along with virtual exchanges with partner schools, broaden linguistic and cultural understanding. Co-curricular experiences include the Global Ideas Institute, Global Hackathons and Experiential Career Workshops. Past local and global experiences include language, culture, history and arts explorations in Spain, performing arts trips to New York, Ireland and other locations, and cultural explorations in London and Paris.	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 There are 40 student-led clubs across the school giving students diverse options beyond class. Clubs include DECA, HOSA, Math Society, Mock Trial, Model United Nations, Robotics, Science Club, Science Olympiad and a range of topics from poetry to video production to photography. Community groups include Asian Student Union, Black Student Union, Muslim Student Union, Jewish Student Union, Peer Connections, Moral Courage Task Force, Gender Sexuality Alliance and Spectrum, the school newspaper.	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 Service learning is a powerful, often life-changing experience and a core part of BSS culture. Student-led service initiatives increase accessibility, justice and equity for marginalized groups, with projects such as food and clothing drives, peer tutoring and Pride Week. In the Junior School, Grade 5 and 6 students tutor younger peers; in Middle and Senior School, students turn classroom learning into action through service initiatives and community projects.	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 Student leadership centers student voice; leadership is learned through training and workshops and practiced across councils, clubs and teams. Senior students can be elected or appointed to formal leadership roles, including Head Prefect, Head Boarder, Grad Prefect, House Prefect and various Council and Academic Team leadership positions. The Leadership Retreat provides development for senior student leaders, and Councils (Arts, Academics, Athletics, Boarding, Business, Chapel, Communications, Events, Environment, Global Awareness, Grad, and others) support student leadership and initiative. Academic Groups include DECA, HOSA, Math Society, Mock Trial, Model United Nations, Robotics, Science Club, Science Olympiad and Speaker's Union.	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 Athletics is a powerful tool for personal growth, fostering mental well-being, confidence and resilience. BSS offers 80+ athletic teams across 21+ sports with a focus on progress, perseverance and teamwork. Facilities include a turf field, two gyms, a pool, dance studios, a rock-climbing wall and a fitness centre. The High Performance Athlete Program provides academic advising and mentorship for advanced athletes, and the Lang Scholar Program offers leadership development opportunities while well-being is supported through Circle of Care, Tiered Support and seven domains of well-being.	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 French is taught in the Junior School by specialist teachers; in the early grades, French introduces everyday vocabulary through stories, songs and games. From Grade 1 onward, French emphasizes conversational fluency and writing; by Grades 4 to 6, instruction includes writing, question formation and storytelling, with ongoing conversational practice and interpretation of texts in Grade 6. Spanish is offered through the Global Learning program with Level 2 and Level 3 Spanish in iEARN virtual exchanges; there is also a Spain language, culture, history and arts experience to broaden language exposure.	Language provision —
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs Reciprocal language-immersion exchanges are maintained with Ermitage International School in France. A Spanish language exchange is conducted through iEARN with partner schools for Level 2 and Level 3 Spanish via virtual conversations. A language, culture, history and arts experience in Spain supports language exposure in real-world contexts.	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards The BSS Volunteer Service Award — recognizes outstanding volunteerism by parents or alumnae, with up to three recipients each year. The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award — program for Grades 9–12 offering Bronze, Silver and Gold levels. The Renata McCARTHY '59 Grade 7 Citizenship Award — endowed Grade 7 citizenship award. The Michele WATT Cassidy '75 Award for the Pursuit of a Dream — endowed award fund. The Award for Teaching Excellence — endowed fund under Endowed and Named Funds.	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 1. Apply online. The Bishop Strachan School uses an online application via MyBSS; create an account and complete the online application form, including the parent and student questionnaires; you can pause and resume your application before submitting. Early Bird and Day School deadlines apply: Early Bird Deadline November 1, 2025 ($250) and Day School Deadline December 1, 2025 ($300). 2. Assessments. Junior School applicants (JK/SK) participate in small-group activities; Grades 1–6 complete a math and English test, plus group activities and games. Middle and Senior School assessments evaluate numeracy, literacy and interpersonal skills with an age-appropriate math assessment and a written task based on a reading passage; there is no need to study or prepare in advance. Grade 7 and 9 applicants are hosted on campus in December 2025 and January 2026, with international students able to complete the assessment virtually on one of two available dates. 3. Admissions decisions and boarding options. Admissions decisions are communicated by email; the Admissions Decision Day for the 2026 cycle is February 20, 2026. Boarding applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, space permitting. 4. Financial assistance and scholarships. The deadline to apply for Financial Assistance and Scholarships is January 5, 2026.	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 Financial assistance and merit-based scholarships are available for students entering Grade 6–12. A completed scholarship application form is required. The deadline to apply for all scholarships for the 2026–27 school year is January 5, 2026.	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 —
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