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WillowWood School

Canada, Toronto

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees CA$29,950 - 33,400
Ages 5 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 250
Type Co-educational
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum Canadian Curriculum
Taught languages French, English
Strengths Sport, Performing Arts, Visual and Creative Arts
Clubs Arts and Creative, Academic and Intellectual, Leadership and Professional
Stages Kindergarten, Primary School, Middle School, Secondary School, High School
Introduction

WillowWood School is an independent day school in Toronto, Canada, serving students aged 5 to 18 in a co-educational setting at 55 Scarsdale Road. All courses from Grade 1 through 12 follow Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum, with regular inspections by Ministry. The school emphasizes a warm, student-centred, holistic approach with small classes and a pod system that coordinates cross-level scheduling to support individualized teaching. Grove Centre and campus spaces foster self-advocacy, collaboration, and clear communication. The International Program welcomes international students and provides English development, guidance, and post-secondary planning; graduates have progressed to universities such as the University of Toronto, McGill, Waterloo, Western, and McMaster. WillowWood offers theatre, music, Visual Arts, and drama along with sport and fitness; extracurriculars include Podcast Club, Robotics Club, and Student Council. The school promotes service and sustainability, a 40-hour OSSD volunteer requirement, climate-focused initiatives like solar panels, and Seasonal Camps for international students.

55 Scarsdale Rd, North York, ON M3B 2R3, Canada

The Essentials

WillowWood School has 250 pupils, instruction in English.

Location
WillowWood School is located at 55 Scarsdale Road, Toronto, Ontario M3B 2R3. It is a private, co-educational day school serving Grades 1-12. The school emphasizes individualized teaching with a pod-based system and small class sizes. It operates in Toronto, Ontario.

Stages
Lower School Grades 1-6; Middle School Grades 7-8; High School Grades 9-12

Type
Independent day school; co-educational

Pupil Nationality Mix
WillowWood's International Program welcomes students from many countries, including China, Korea, Saudi Arabia and Mexico.

Additional learning support
Lower School offers an Additional Support Program with Orton-Gillingham, Remediation Plus, Direct Instruction (Reasoning and Writing; Reading Comprehension), and related supports (math, writing, organizational skills, assistive technology). High School provides TOSS (Teaching Organization and Study Skills) and Homework Hubs; tutoring and study support are available.

Country affiliation
Canada

Religious affiliation
No religious affiliation

School day structure
Follows Ontario Ministry of Education hours; mandated number of hours and achievements are required; the schedule is not flexible.
Diving Deeper

Food Options
The school has a green and sustainable cafeteria.

Governance and Ownership
WillowWood School Inc. is the owning entity of WillowWood School's website.
Fees

Annual tuition at WillowWood School ranges from CAD 29,950 to CAD 33,400 for 2026/27.

Application fee
- No separate application fee is required for admission.

Tuition fees (annual) — published school-year figures
- The following annual tuition amounts are published for the 2026/27 academic year (amounts shown in Canadian dollars):
- Kindergarten 3 (K3): CAD 29,950 per year.
- Grades 1–6: CAD 29,950 per year.
- Grades 7–8: CAD 31,500 per year.
- Grades 9–12: CAD 33,400 per year.
Annual billing is used for the figures shown.

Tuition fees (notes and other course fees)
- Period Five (online / credit recovery or advance-credit) fees: full-credit course CAD 1,800; half-credit course CAD 900.
- Additional support programs, small-group interventions, remediation or enrichment are charged as extra fees when applicable; these are delivered on a for-fee basis.
- International-student guardianship and homestay services, when required, can add significant cost; typical ranges published for those services at the school are approximately CAD 10,000 to CAD 30,000 (guardian/homestay arrangements are billed separately from base tuition).

Billing schedule and payment terms
- The tuition figures are shown as annual amounts. An early-payment incentive is published (discount CAD 500), and a sibling (second-child) discount is published (CAD 2,200), indicating the school offers at least an annual payment option with early-payment and sibling adjustments. Exact instalment options, term-by-term billing dates, and the full tuition payment schedule should be confirmed with admissions or accounts.

Boarding / Residential fees
- WillowWood operates as a day school; there is no boarding program and no boarding fees. Homestay or guardianship services for international students are arranged and charged separately when needed.

Other compulsory or typical additional costs
- Uniforms and spirit wear: the school maintains a uniform policy and an official schoolwear store for required items (hoodies, zip-ups, shirts, etc.). Uniform purchase costs are additional to tuition and are paid through the school-authorized supplier.
- Student activities, field trips (including larger out-of-province/international trips), certain co-curricular offerings, and some support-program placements may carry extra fees charged separately from tuition.
- Summer program or Camp Discovery sessions are offered with separate fees (program fees for summer courses/camps are charged in addition to regular tuition).

Refunds, cancellation, and withdrawal
- No detailed, public tuition-refund schedule or an explicit published withdrawal/refund table is posted alongside the school fee figures available in public listings. Families should review the school's formal enrollment/fee agreement (enrolment contract) for the precise cancellation, withdrawal and refund terms that will apply to any payments made.

Fee payment options (common methods and practical note)
- Common payment methods used across Canadian private schools include: electronic bank transfer (wire), Interac e-Transfer, cheque, and credit-card payments (sometimes via a third-party processor). The school's published materials list annual amounts and discounts but do not publish a full, detailed public list of accepted payment channels; families should confirm the accepted payment methods, fees for credit-card processing, and available instalment plans with the school's admissions or finance office.

Quick practical summary for parents
- Annual tuition (2026/27 published figures): K3–Gr 6 CAD 29,950; Gr 7–8 CAD 31,500; Gr 9–12 CAD 33,400.
- No separate application fee is required.
- The school is a day school (no boarding); homestay/guardianship for international students is extra.
- Expect additional charges for uniforms, optional programs, some support services, and summer offerings; Period Five course fees are CAD 1,800 (full credit) and CAD 900 (half credit).

(If you need the precise billing dates, instalment options or the school's formal refund/cancellation clause for the enrollment contract, those items are handled by the school's admissions/accounts office.)
Academics

WillowWood School teaches Canadian Curriculum for students aged 5 to 18.

Curriculum
All courses in Lower School (Grades 1-6), Middle School (Grades 7-8), and High School (Grades 9-12) follow the Ontario Ministry of Education's curriculum guidelines, and the school is regularly inspected by the Ministry.

Student Teacher Ratio
Small class sizes.

Higher Education Progression
Alumni have progressed to universities including the University of Toronto, University of Waterloo, McGill University, McMaster University, and Western University.

Gifted and Talented
An enriched program is available for students who excel in one or more subject areas.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
WillowWood provides social and emotional support integrated into regular schooling. The school has an on-staff Psychotherapist, Dena Tenenhouse, who advises staff, counsels students and helps families; she also oversees the TOSS program and WillowWood's Responsible Actions Program. The Lower School benefits from an Art Therapist, Shirley Eknovitz, who counsels students and helps develop interpersonal skills. A High School Guidance Counselor, Sari Kafka, assists High School students and families with academics, post-secondary planning and life navigation. Teachers and staff are invested in mental health and social development so no student falls through the cracks.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Lower School offers an Additional Support Program for intensive intervention, enrichment or remediation. These programs include Orton-Gillingham and Remediation Plus Reading programs; Direct Instruction: Reasoning and Writing, Reading Comprehension; Locally developed support programs for Expressive Writing, Math, Homework, Text, Organizational Skills, and Assistive Technology. These are organized and delivered by Stacey Michaels and Jamie Bearg-Pustil, who have worked as a team for nearly 20 years. High School students can enrol in TOSS (Teaching Organization and Study Skills), an extra-fee small-group class focused on executive functioning, time management, assistive technology and self-advocacy. There is also Homework Hubs, tutorials and workshops before school, at lunchtime, and after school, plus a tutoring program for students requiring that.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
WillowWood's International Program welcomes students from all over the world – China, Korea, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, and more. The International Program is a fully immersive environment integrated with the Domestic Program. The international team includes an International Student Coordinator, highly qualified teachers, guidance counselors (to assist with post-secondary planning, applications, and scholarships), English development instructors, athletics coaches, club leaders, and arts instructors.

Mental Wellbeing
Mental wellbeing is prioritized with dedicated staff and programs. The on-staff Psychotherapist advises staff, counsels students and helps families; the TOSS program supports executive functioning and self-advocacy; an Art Therapist supports Lower School social-emotional development; and a High School Guidance Counselor assists with academic planning and life navigation.

Safeguarding
WillowWood operates the Responsible Actions Program as part of its safeguarding initiatives.
Parent Experience

History
WillowWood School has a long history and philosophy that shape its culture and approach to learning. The staff and leadership have delivered student-centered, individualized education in a warm and caring environment for over 40 years. WillowWood has been working for students for more than 40 years. WillowWood maintains core values that all students have the right to learn with dignity in a warm, nurturing environment.

Community
WillowWood's culture emphasizes social involvement, good citizenship and love, with a long history of community involvement. Students engage in 40-hour volunteer activities for the Ontario Secondary School Diploma, and participate in High School Coop placements and community events such as the Battle of Scarsdale Softball Tournament. Philanthropy and social activism are central, with the RAP program addressing social issues and initiatives like SHOP for Juliette's Place and Pennies for Pets. Travel and exploration are encouraged, with field trips and travel programs locally and internationally, and environmental initiatives such as a Climate Change Action Committee and solar panels installed in 2020.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
WillowWood School is a co-educational independent day school for Grades 1-12 located at 55 Scarsdale Road, Toronto, Ontario M3B 2R3. The pod system with coordinated cross-level scheduling supports individualized teaching and small class sizes. The Grove Centre is listed among WillowWood's offerings, indicating dedicated spaces within the campus. The environment is warm with a holistic pedagogy, and students are encouraged to set personal goals and develop self-advocacy and communication skills.

Sports Facilities
WillowWood provides gym facilities for physical education. In 2022, a pickleball workshop introduced the sport to students, and by Spring 2023 gym classes gained access to pickleball equipment funded by the Athletic Department. An Intramural Pickleball League was planned to provide ongoing opportunities to play.

Academic Facilities
All courses in Lower, Middle, and Upper School (Grades 1-12) follow the Ontario Ministry of Education's curriculum guidelines. Classes are small and the atmosphere is warm, with a holistic pedagogical approach. WillowWood is inspected regularly by the Ministry of Education and adheres to its regulations and guidelines. Online Learning is offered as part of the school's program to support diverse learner needs.

Extra Curricular Facilities
Extracurricular opportunities include Podcast Club, Robotics Club, and Student Council. The Athletic Director coordinates athletics and the Aftercare Program. Hilary Rahbar directs the annual school musical. ESL programs are coordinated by Rosie Ortiz, the International Student Coordinator, who also serves as IELTS coordinator. The Aftercare Program is an established offering.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
WillowWood delivers targeted, personal education that considers each student's needs, inclinations, and strengths. Classes are small, the atmosphere is warm, and the pedagogical approach is holistic. Enriched programs support students who excel in one or more subjects, and all courses in Lower, Middle, and Upper School follow the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum. The school is inspected regularly by the Ministry of Education and prepares students to be on-track when transferring to other schools.

Arts & Creative
Arts offerings are broad; students explore many art forms in Lower School and beyond, including Music, Drama, Choir, Film, and Digital Design. Lower School classes include art with an art therapist to discuss classroom culture in a supportive setting. The Visual Arts program covers drawing, sculpture, painting, installation art, and digital media, with work showcased in gallery shows and performances. The Theatre program stages two major productions each year, inviting students to participate onstage, backstage, or in design roles.

Cultural & Language
WillowWood's International Program welcomes students from around the world, offering a fully integrated environment with the domestic program. International students are supported by an International Student Coordinator, highly qualified teachers, guidance counselors, English development instructors, athletics coaches, club leaders, and arts instructors. In High School, the program focuses on post-secondary admission in Canada and globally, with graduates attending universities such as the University of Toronto, Waterloo, McGill, McMaster, and Western; students are encouraged to compete in national mathematics contests. Summer and Winter Camps are offered for international students.

Social & Hobbies
WillowWood is an active school, with a focus on fitness, mindfulness, nutrition, and community health. The gym and Workout Room support Physical Education classes, clubs, workshops, and Mindfulness activities such as Meditation and Yoga. Competitive SSAF teams provide opportunities for teamwork and healthy competition in sports such as Cross Country, Ultimate Frisbee, Basketball, Volleyball, Hockey, Soccer, and more. Camping trips and outdoor days, along with various field trips around the GTA, broaden social and recreational experiences.

Community & Service
WillowWood emphasizes community involvement and good citizenship; students can complete the 40-hour volunteer requirement for the Ontario Secondary School Diploma in home communities or through the school and local partners. Students participate in High School Coop placements and community events such as the Battle of Scarsdale Softball Tournament. The RAP program offers opportunities to learn about and help with food security, animal welfare, environmentalism, and human rights; SHOP fundraising has supported Juliette's Place, and Pennies for Pets helps animals in those communities. The Climate Change Action Committee advocates sustainability; solar panels were installed to reduce the school's footprint.

Leadership & Professional
Guidance counselors assist with post-secondary planning, applications, and scholarships. The Student Council donates a portion of its funds to charities chosen by members. The RAP program and student clubs offer leadership opportunities in community initiatives spanning food security, animal welfare, environmentalism, and human rights. The International Program provides English development instructors, club leaders, and arts instructors who help students develop leadership in a global context.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
WillowWood promotes healthy living across body, mind, spirit, and emotions. Students learn about mental health, mindfulness, nutrition, and community health; the Gymnasium and Workout Room host fitness classes, clubs, and workshops, including Meditation and Yoga clubs. Camping trips and outdoor days support physical well-being and a connection with nature, and Mindful Meditation Clubs help students manage their interior spaces. Movement, mindfulness, and active participation in sports are integrated into daily life.
Languages

Language Provision
ESL programs and English language development instructors support international students. The International Student Coordinator oversees ESL programs and courses. The IELTS Coordinator is responsible for IELTS-related activities and is supported by staff such as Rosie Ortiz, who is fluent in three languages.

Immersion Programs
The International Program is fully immersive and integrated with WillowWood's Domestic Program. It welcomes students from around the world and uses a team‑oriented approach to learning, including an International Student Coordinator, highly qualified teachers, guidance counselors, English development instructors, athletics coaches, club leaders and arts instructors. In High School, the program focuses on post‑secondary education in Canada and around the world; international students attend universities such as the University of Toronto, Waterloo, McGill, McMaster and Western.
Admissions

Admissions
1. Domestic Admissions: The admissions process is ongoing throughout the year. A meeting with parents/guardians and Principals is held. A visit to the school by the prospective student is possible if feasible. Documentation is reviewed as part of the process. 2. International Admissions: A parent, guardian or agent contacts the school and receives a list of necessary information. The information is assessed by the admissions team. An interview meeting (in person or via telephone/Skype) is held with the prospective student's parent(s)/guardian(s)/agent, our admissions team, and the student. Placement is offered. 3. Next steps: To proceed, fill out the Inquiry Form. You can call 416 444 7644 to speak with an admissions representative. You may also apply online.
School Events
The school has not added events
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