Why People Choose Independent Schools

Due to its diverse landscape, Ontario’s independent schools offer a vast spectrum of philosophies, religious and non-religious identities, and approaches to help students with a variety of special needs. For parents who feel their child has a need that is not being met, or is unable to be met by, the public-school sector, independent schools might be the only hope their child has to feel safe, protected, and have a fair chance at an education.

A 2022 study conducted by Cardus Education has revealed significant, detailed data to support the growing enrollment in independent schools in Ontario, supporting the idea that more parents than ever are seeking alternative educational environments for their children.

As the researchers state in their report:

“District schools either do not or cannot meet these special needs or desires, since their fundamental purpose is to provide a high-quality education to Ontario’s children considered as a whole On the individual level, families have individual goals or needs for the education of their children.”