A school that fits your child and family

A school’s name or ranking alone is not enough. Look at admission rules, your child’s needs and the daily journey before choosing a home or a school, because this choice shapes the whole family’s day.

1. Give your home address to the school board and ask about your assigned school, catchment boundaries, required documents and transport. The school usually depends on the address, so ask before settling on a home.
2. Ask about the language of instruction, English or French support for newcomers, support for learning difficulties or disability, and before- and after-school care. Ask for a clear explanation of what support your own child can actually get.
3. For an Islamic or other private school, check its status with your province’s education ministry, its curriculum, recognition of its credential, fees, refund policy and transport. Registration and inspection vary by province and school type, and a government listing does not always mean full accreditation.
4. Contact the school and visit if you can, and see the environment and program for yourself. Compare what you saw with your child’s needs rather than word of mouth; we do not rank schools either.

Caution: Living near a school does not guarantee a place; confirm with the school board before committing to a lease.

Bottom line: A school’s name or ranking alone is not enough. Look at admission rules, your child’s needs and the daily journey before choosing a home or a school, because this choice shapes the whole family’s day.

Last reviewed: 26 September 2026