| Communities

If the call of quiet living on the shores of Lake Ontario sounds good, Oakville offers a safe harbour nestled between Toronto and Hamilton. It’s just far enough to feel away from it all but close enough that you aren’t entirely cut off from the things you love in the city. A perfect town for families, Oakville provides access to some of the GTA’s best schools. Here we offer your guide to Oakville schools in the most popular neighbourhoods and what you can expect to find education-wise for your kiddos.

What Types of Schools are Available in Oakville?

As part of the Halton region school system, Oakville offers a selection of public, Catholic, and private schools ranging from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12. 

Public vs. Catholic School Boards

Public and Catholic schools are government funded, meaning attending the school is free. The main difference between the two school boards is that Catholic curriculums include religious study, while public schools don’t. At Catholic high schools, students are required to wear uniforms, while public school students are not. Although Catholic schools include religious instruction, students are not required to be Catholic to attend. Both school boards offer curriculums working towards the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). 

Looking for more top schools in the GTA? Read these posts next:

Public/Catholic School Boards vs. Private Schools

When looking at the differences between private and public/Catholic school boards, private schools are not government funded and instead, charge tuition for students to attend. Average tuition varies quite a bit, ranging from $10,000 to $50,000. On top of the tuition, you also pay for things such as textbooks, provided at no cost by Ontario school boards. Some private elementary schools might also require uniforms. 

Also, although not funded by the government of Ontario, private schools are regulated by the government, ensuring all private schools are listed online. The schools must also provide a notice of intention each year. The province inspects private secondary schools seeking the authority to grant credits in courses leading to the OSSD.

Private schools must also operate with the following:

  • A principal in charge of the school
  • Control of quality of instruction and evaluation of student achievement, programs, and course studies
  • A common school-wide assessment and evaluation policy, procedure for reporting to parents, and attendance policy
  • A central office maintaining student records

Although private schools are expensive, most offer scholarships and financial assistance programs for a limited number of families who qualify. 

Schools in Family-Friendly Oakville Neighbourhoods

Oakville is a town that finds itself in the top rankings for MoneySense’s top places to live in Canada year after year. It has an upscale vibe, yet many humble, family-centric neighbourhoods continue to welcome people from all walks of life. One of the greenest towns in the GTA, Oakville is crazy with parks and hiking trails, while “Old Oakville’s” picturesque heritage homes and stunning harbour always offer plenty to see and do. Here is a look at some of the best Oakville neighbourhoods and their schools:

West Oak Trails

A perfect example of Oakville’s growing neighbourhoods, families love this sweet hilly spot’s quiet winding streets, crescents, and culs-de-sac. Easy access to woodlands and parks along family-friendly trails, homes backing onto quiet, green ravines, and an easy drive to the popular Bronte Creek Provincial Park make this an idyllic place to raise a family. 

Schools in the neighbourhood include:

Public

Catholic

Private

Glen Abbey

If the name sounds familiar, you’re likely an avid golfer imagining the pristine greens at the world-renowned Glen Abbey Golf Club. This prestigious area provides a warm hug embracing this beautifully maintained course, where high-end amenities, outdoor hiking trails, public parks, and recreation centers beckon young families. Schools in the area include:

Public

Catholic

Private

Eastlake (Ford)

If you want something closer to the lake, aptly named Eastlake (aka Ford) is on the southeast corner of Oakville’s shoreline. This is by far one of Oakville’s loveliest areas where commuters tend to flock. It’s one of those quintessential neighbourhoods with a tight-knit community watching out for each other and where families feel truly blessed to live in such enchanting surroundings. There are fewer schools here as the area is so close to the lake:

Catholic

Public

Private

Joshua Creek

Another up-and-coming Oakville neighbourhood, Joshua Creek, is a natural magnet for young, active families attracted to the sprawling green space and sporting facilities. Because of its northeast location, it’s also popular among Toronto and Mississauga commuters. Schools in the area include:

Public

Catholic:

Private:

Clearview

A stone’s throw from Joshua Creek and at the outskirts of Oakville’s east end, Clearview (aka Sherwood Heights) is a commuter-friendly area where families find safe, friendly streets lined with shady mature trees and homes accented by well-kept lawns. Hilly, grassy, green, and close to Oakville Shopping Centre, this area has it all. Schools include:

Public

Catholic

Private

More Oakville Schools

Other schools Oakville include:

Public

Catholic

Private

The best way to experience Oakville is to visit the town, get a feel for the local vibe, and stroll through the neighborhoods to take in the homes, community, and schools. 

If you’re looking to move from Toronto to Oakville, call The Christine Cowern Team at 416.291.7372 or email us at hello@christinecowern.com. We’d love to work with you!