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Montcrest School

Canada, Toronto

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The school at a glance
Fees CA$36,600 - 52,650
Ages Not listed
Pupil numbers 330
Type Co-educational
Opened 1961
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum Bespoke Curriculum
Taught languages English, French
Typical class size 8
Strengths Performing Arts, Visual and Creative Arts, Outdoor Education
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language
Stages Kindergarten, Primary School, Middle School
Introduction

Montcrest is a JK–Grade 8 independent day school in central Toronto that blends small classes with a four-stage grade-band curriculum. JK–SK emphasizes play-based learning, curiosity, relationships, early literacy and numeracy, resilience, and celebrating individuality. Grades 1–3, Discovering, Growing & Connecting, cultivate joyful exploration, belonging, and development of academic skills, self-awareness and confidence. Grades 4–6, Igniting Growth & Discovery, focus on daily adventure, independence, and deeper engagement with the curriculum. Grades 7–8, Igniting Adventure & Ambition, prepare students for high school through an integrated two-year experience that builds independence and critical thinking. Across all grades, Learning Principles are woven through curriculum, School Life & Co-Curriculars, including Arts, Athletics and leadership opportunities, with ongoing emphasis on holistic development and small-class learning. The campus on Broadview Avenue blends historic homes with spaces designed for learning. Real-world connections come from Riverdale Farm and Todmorden Mills, and Montcrest's four House system (Cedar, Mulberry, Sumac, Tamarack) plus a Community Garden Project enrich leadership.

658 Broadview Ave, Toronto, ON M4K 2P1, Canada

The Essentials

Montcrest School has 330 pupils, typical class sizes of 8.

Location
658 Broadview Ave, Toronto, ON M4K 2P1, Canada

Stages
Kindergarten to Grade 8 (JK–Grade 8)

Type
Co-educational, independent day school

Additional learning support
Student Success Team with co-teaching models; Small Classes (approx. 8:1) for neurodiverse learners; Empower Reading program

Country affiliation
Canada

School day structure
Lunch program; Aftercare & After School Programs; active transportation encouraged; Broadview subway nearby; transportation options include Argo school bus services to the Beaches area

Bus service
Argo school bus services to the Beaches area
Diving Deeper

Uniform Requirement
Dress for your day: Uniforms are categorized as Formal, Everyday, and Gym, tailored by division, with optional Spirit wear.

Food Options
Lunch is provided through Kidssentials; the program offers a diverse kid-friendly menu and environmentally conscious packaging; Wednesday pizza lunches are offered through the Montcrest Parents' Association.

House System
The school has four houses: Cedar, Mulberry, Sumac, and Tamarack.

Governance and Ownership
Montcrest is governed by a Board of Governors that provides strategic direction and financial stewardship, with committees including Advancement; Finance & Risk; Head Support & Evaluation; Nominating & Governance; Property; and Risk.
Fees

Annual tuition at Montcrest School ranges from CAD 36,600 to CAD 52,650 for 2026/27.

Application fees

- Application Fee: CAD 200 for domestic applicants. CAD 300 for international applicants.

Registration and initial deposits

- New Student Registration Fee (one-time, non-refundable): CAD 6,000 for new students entering SK–Grade 8. For new families starting in JK the New Student Registration Fee is CAD 3,000.
- First tuition deposit (non-refundable): CAD 5,000 payable upon acceptance / re-registration. This deposit is applied against the total tuition.

Tuition fees by year group (annual totals)

- Junior Kindergarten (JK): CAD 36,600 per year.
- Senior Kindergarten (SK): CAD 36,600 per year.
- Grades 1–5: CAD 42,300 per year.
- Grades 6–8: CAD 42,300 tuition plus a Band Fee of CAD 350 = CAD 42,650 total per year.
- Small Class option (where offered): Grades up to 5 Small Class CAD 52,300 per year; Grades 6–8 Small Class CAD 52,300 tuition plus CAD 350 Band Fee = CAD 52,650 per year.

Payment plans and billing schedule (how annual tuition can be paid)

All payment plans require the CAD 5,000 instalment due upon acceptance / re-registration (applies to JK/SK, Grades 1–8 and Small Class entries). The balance is payable under one of the following options:

- Option 1 — One additional payment:
- Single remaining payment due July 1, 2026.
- Amounts after the CAD 5,000 deposit: JK/SK CAD 31,600; Grades 1–8 CAD 37,300; Small Class CAD 47,300.

- Option 2 — Two additional payments:
- Payments due July 1, 2026 and December 1, 2026.
- JK/SK: CAD 21,600 (July 1) and CAD 10,000 (Dec 1).
- Grades 1–8: CAD 25,300 (July 1) and CAD 12,000 (Dec 1).
- Small Class: CAD 31,300 (July 1) and CAD 16,000 (Dec 1).

- Option 3 — Monthly plan (10 additional payments):
- Ten monthly payments from July 1, 2026 through April 1, 2027.
- Monthly amounts: JK/SK CAD 3,200; Grades 1–8 CAD 3,770; Small Class CAD 4,770. These are the amounts in addition to the CAD 5,000 deposit.

- Monthly billing note: online banking payments to Montcrest School are due on the 1st of each month.

Additional and program-specific fees

- Band Fee: CAD 350 for all students in Grades 6–8 (included in the Grades 6–8 total listed above).
- One-time Laptop Purchase Fee: Applies to all Grade 6 students (new and returning) and new Grade 7 & 8 students when opting into the device purchase; cost is determined each year and will be invoiced in July or September if chosen.
- Excursions and academic resources for Kindergarten are included in the JK/SK tuition as stated.
- Uniforms, optional co-curricular charges, aftercare fees, and other incidentals may apply; these are billed separately from the base tuition and are not included in the annual tuition totals above. (Specific uniform and aftercare fees are available through the school's resources for families.)

Refund information

- The New Student Registration Fee (CAD 6,000 for SK–Grade 8; CAD 3,000 for new families starting in JK) is one-time and non-refundable. The first tuition deposit of CAD 5,000 is also non-refundable. No other specific prorated refund schedule for withdrawal or mid-year refunds is published alongside these fee items.

Billing and payment methods (how you may pay)

- Online banking / bill payment: Accepted from major Canadian banks (Bank of Montreal, RBC, PC Financial, TD Canada Trust, CIBC, Scotiabank). Payee name: Montcrest School. Account name / online account number format: first four letters of the child's surname followed by 001 (example: Smith = SMIT001). Online banking payments are due on the 1st of each month.
- Interac e-Transfer: Accepted to [email protected].
- Credit card: Accepted via Plastiq (secure third-party service). A service charge from Plastiq applies and is payable to Plastiq.

Other billing notes and items to expect

- Tuition and fees for the coming school year are set by the Board of Governors and are published in January each year.
- Financial assistance (bursaries) is available for families in Grades 1–8 through an application process; deadlines are published for current and prospective families.

Limitations / missing published details

- A general, detailed tuition-refund schedule (for example, pro rata refunds by withdrawal date or a full-year liability statement) beyond the explicitly stated non-refundable items is not published with the tuition summary and payment-plan materials provided. The non-refundable items listed above are the only explicit refund-related statements published with the 2026–27 tuition materials.
Academics

Montcrest School teaches Bespoke Curriculum.

Curriculum
Montcrest is a JK to Grade 8 school in Toronto with a grade-band curriculum organized around four learning stages. Kindergarten JK & SK cultivates curiosity and builds strong foundations through play-based learning, with an emphasis on relationships, early literacy and numeracy, resilience, emotions and celebrating individuality. Grades 1–3 focus on Discovering, Growing & Connecting, emphasizing joyful exploration, a sense of belonging, and the development of academic skills, self-awareness and confidence. Grades 4–6 focus on Igniting Growth & Discovery, fostering daily adventure, early independence and deeper engagement with the curriculum to build academic skills. Grades 7–8 focus on Igniting Adventure & Ambition, preparing students for high school through an integrated two-year experience that develops independence, critical thinking and a deep sense of belonging. Across all grades, Learning Principles are woven into practice through curriculum, projects and School Life & Co-Curriculars, including Arts, Athletics and leadership opportunities, with a continuing emphasis on holistic development and small-class learning.

Student Teacher Ratio
Small class sizes are a feature of Montcrest's learning approach. The Small Class Support Model provides a typical student-to-teacher ratio of 8:1 to support neurodiverse learners and deliver targeted instruction.

Higher Education Progression
Life after Montcrest includes a Grade 9 Application and Placement program to help families identify best-fit high schools. High School destinations include Bishop Strachan School, Crescent School, Danforth Collegiate Technical Institute, De La Salle College, Greenwood College School, Havergal College, Hotchkiss School (US Boarding), Malvern Collegiate Institute, Metropolitan Preparatory Academy, Monarch Park Collegiate Institute, Riverdale Collegiate Institute, Rosedale Heights School of the Arts, Royal St. George's College, St. Michael's College School, St. Clement's School, The Study Academy, The York School, and Toronto Prep School.

Gifted and Talented
Challenge & Support includes an enriched curriculum for deeper learning, co-teaching and a Student Success Team to provide targeted support and enrichment. The Empower Reading program offers remedial and reading-specific support, while Small Class Support Model and Goal Setting through Student Profiles tailor instruction to individual learners; these elements together support diverse learning needs and advanced learning opportunities.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The school has a Standing for Character initiative that cultivates respect, integrity, compassion, courage and curiosity among the Montcrest community. These values are woven into every aspect of school life, enhancing self-awareness, confidence and social-emotional well-being. Leadership opportunities exist in every division, including Community Engagement Team, House Leaders, GSA Leaders, Eco Team Leaders and Innovation & Inclusion Leaders. In Grade 8, students participate in internal and external leadership training and can hold roles such as Assistant Coach, Maker Space Leader, or be part of the Community Engagement Team. The House System connects Cedar, Tamarack, Sumac and Mulberry houses to foster cross‑grade collaboration and a sense of belonging, guided by these core values.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
The school has a Student Success Team (SST) and homeroom teachers who collaborate through co-teaching models to provide students with support and challenge. Flexible co-teaching models and targeted groups enable short-term skill work or deeper learning, including specific remedial programs such as The Empower Reading program. Small Class Support Model provides neurodiverse students with a low student-to-teacher ratio (typically 8:1), with experienced special education teachers delivering explicit executive function instruction and systematic material review to unlock the curriculum and foster independence. Each child has a Student Profile, including a Personal and Learning Profile developed with input from the child, family and teachers to guide their learning journey. Supports are adjusted as students progress to promote self-advocacy and independence beyond Montcrest.

Mental Wellbeing
Montcrest's core values—Respect, Integrity, Compassion, Courage and Curiosity—inform teaching and relationships and help students feel safe, seen and a sense of belonging, supporting social-emotional well-being. Equity & Inclusion work reinforces a commitment to inclusive education and to dismantling inequitable systems so that every student can thrive. Safety and well-being are explicit core expectations, guiding a safe, positive learning environment. The Core Expectations include Emotional Regulation and anti-harassment provisions to ensure respectful behavior and provide pathways to support when needed. When appropriate, the school can refer students to counselling or outside services to support wellbeing, and restorative practices are being pursued through partnerships such as Peacebuilders Canada.

Safeguarding
Safety and Well-being are a core school priority, with a framework that maintains a safe and positive environment for all. Early and ongoing intervention is used under a Progressive Discipline approach, including verbal reminders, review of expectations, parental consultation and targeted learning tasks. For ongoing or serious breaches, consequences can include in-school suspension, temporary suspension or expulsion, with formal meetings with parents. Counselling referrals may be used to connect students with internal or external support services. Anti-bullying, respect for others, and inclusive education are emphasized to protect all students and promote a respectful community.
Parent Experience

History
The January School began in 1961, devoted to small classes and enrolling students by ability rather than birth date. It was founded by Patricia and Taduez Grygier to serve their son Jan, who was born in January and could not enter Kindergarten until the following year. The January School started with seven students on Spadina Avenue in Toronto's Annex. In 2020 the Building Together project was completed, Montcrest Goes Mobile was introduced, and a new kite logo was launched. In 2024 the Community Garden Project and four Houses (Cedar, Mulberry, Sumac, Tamarack) were introduced, and in 2025 a new Strategy Adventurous and Ambitious Montcrest was launched.

Community
Signature events include Kite Day and Fall Fair. In 2024 Montcrest launched the Community Garden Project and introduced four Houses: Cedar, Mulberry, Sumac, and Tamarack. The Montcrest community is supported by the Montcrest Parents' Association, through which every parent/guardian is a member and can volunteer, participate in school activities, and help with fundraising events. Volunteer opportunities exist with monthly meetings and a calendar of events accessible via MyMontcrest.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
Montcrest Parents' Association (MPA) comprises every parent/guardian of a Montcrest student. The MPA coordinates parent volunteers, school activities, and fundraising events. Its mission is to enrich the lives of children at school by building a strong, nurturing community. The MPA organizes and supports signature events and programs, strengthening belonging and connection to the broader community. Volunteer opportunities exist, with monthly meetings and events, with details available on MyMontcrest.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
The campus consists of historic homes and purpose-built buildings in central Toronto. It is located along Broadview Avenue and is easily accessible by the TTC, about a 20-minute commute from downtown. The campus sits in an urban setting with nearby community resources that enrich learning, including Riverdale Farm and Todmorden Mills wildflower preserve. A 360° virtual tour shows academic facilities, recess areas, and specialized classrooms. Nearby Farm and Forest experiences bring real-world connections to the curriculum, including Riverdale Farm (7.5 acres) and Todmorden Mills wildflower preserve (9.2 hectares).

Academic Facilities
Academic facilities include historic homes and purpose-built classrooms that support JK–Grade 8 learning. The 360° virtual tour shows these academic spaces and specialized classrooms. Recess areas are integrated into the campus to support active learning. Regular field experiences with Riverdale Farm and Todmorden Mills connect classroom topics with real-world contexts.

Extra Curricular Facilities
Academic Clubs, Arts, Athletics, Leadership & Community Engagement, Aftercare & After School Programs, and Resources (library and uniforms) are part of Montcrest's school life and co-curriculars. Arts programs include Drama, Music, and Visual Arts. Riverdale Farm visits and Todmorden Mills forest experiences provide hands-on learning outside the classroom. Aftercare & After School Programs extend learning beyond the school day. Resources such as a library and uniforms support daily learning.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
Academic Clubs include Primary French, Lego Challenge, Robotics, and Chess. These clubs grow with students, encouraging critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving. Students lead discussions, deepen their interests, and make meaningful connections as they advance through the grades.

Arts & Creative
Montcrest Arts comprises Drama, Music, and Visual Arts programs that are a vibrant part of learning. Engaging experiences empower students to express themselves, solve problems creatively, and develop their personal learning stories. The programs foster confidence, collaboration, and artistic exploration.

Cultural & Language
Primary French is offered as an early language exploration within Academic Clubs. Montcrest fosters belonging in a global community through equity and inclusion initiatives. Diversity is a source of strength and creativity, and voices from all backgrounds are valued. This global perspective informs learning experiences across the campus.

Social & Hobbies
Aftercare provides daily, supervised time after school with play, structured activities, quiet time for homework, and a snack. Paid after-school programs are offered through partnerships with Extra Ed. and Beats and Bars Music School. School Break programming runs during holidays and on professional learning days.

Community & Service
Leadership & Community Engagement offers opportunities for community outreach, equity and inclusion, peacemakers, buddies to prospective and younger students, intramurals, and ambassadors. In Grade 8, students participate in leadership training and can hold roles such as Assistant Coach, House Leader, Maker Space Leader, or be part of the Community Engagement Team. Leadership opportunities grow across divisions.

Leadership & Professional
A range of leadership roles is available across the school, including Community Engagement Team, House Leaders, GSA Leaders, Eco Team Leaders, and Club Leaders. In Grade 8, students participate in internal and external leadership training events and take on mentorship and project-planning responsibilities. The House System and Standing for Character cultivate leadership, respect, integrity, and curiosity over time.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
Montcrest Athletics offers a diverse program designed to maximize student engagement and cultivate a love for sports, with no early specialization. The CISAA schedule includes Volleyball, Badminton, Basketball, Track & Field, Ultimate, Cross Country, Futsal, Curling, and Flag Football. Open Sport expands gender-inclusive options with activities such as basketball, futsal, tripleball, handball, tennis, rock climbing, and dance.
Languages

Language Provision
French is offered as a language activity through Primary French in Academic Clubs. Primary French introduces French language concepts within the Montcrest learning experience. Academic Clubs also include Lego Challenge, Robotics and Chess, illustrating a broad range of co-curriculars alongside language.
Admissions

Admissions
1. Let's Chat. Families schedule an online admissions book a chat with the admissions team; sessions start in mid-September. The chat is an opportunity to learn about Montcrest and to partner with the family through the admissions process. 2. Meet the Admissions Team. The admissions team provides information about the school and answers questions as part of the process; this helps families understand program fit and enrollment pathways. 3. Apply. Families begin by submitting an online application; international applicants follow the International Application Process (Admissions Chat, online application, online assessment, application review, and application decision). The Apply Now link is available to start the process. 4. Visit Montcrest. Campus Tours are 30 minutes, led by a Montcrest Student Ambassador, offered Tuesdays and Thursdays on an alternating schedule at 9:45 a.m. and 1:45 p.m.; register through the inquiry form. Information Sessions are held each fall for entry grades. 5. Key Dates and Decisions. The application deadline for September entry is December 1, 2025; for 2026-27 entry, deadlines include financial aid and re-enrolment timelines; the application response date is February 20, 2026 and the withdrawal deadline is May 29, 2026; a common offer date occurs on February 20, 2026. 6. Enrollment and Fees. If offered a place, a New Student Registration Fee of $6,000 is payable upon acceptance, and a non-refundable first tuition deposit of $5,000 is due; a Laptop Purchase Fee applies for Grades 6-8; JK/SK tuition is $36,600; Grades 1-5 tuition is $42,300; Grades 6-8 tuition is $42,300 plus a $350 Band Fee. 7. Financial Arrangements. Montcrest offers Financial Assistance through a bursary program for eligible students in Grades 1-8; applications are submitted online via Apple Financial Services by November 15 for current families and December 15 for new families; bursaries are allocated based on demonstrated need and to support as many families as possible.

Scholarships
Montcrest provides modest financial assistance through a bursary program for students in Grades 1-8 based on demonstrated financial need; eligibility is determined through an online bursary application submitted via Apple Financial Services by November 15 for current families and December 15 for new families each year; bursary funds are allocated to as many families as possible.
School Events
The school has not added events
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