Ottawa Best Private Schools
A Guide to the Best Private Schools in Ottawa
Updated for the 2026–27 school year.
Choosing among private schools in Ottawa means weighing tuition, curriculum, location, and the kind of community your child will thrive in. This guide compares Ottawa’s leading private and independent schools — including co-ed, all-girls, French-language, faith-based, and special-needs options — with grade ranges, approximate tuition, and the neighbourhoods around each campus, so you can plan both your child’s education and where to live in Ottawa.
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Summary of "Ottawa Best Private Schools"
- Traditional Academic Excellence: Ashbury College, Elmwood School, Lycée Claudel
- Specialized Programs: Heritage Academy, Académie St-Laurent Academy, Providence Antonine Sisters Academy
- Boarding Schools and International Programs: Ashbury College, International School of Ottawa
- Factors to Consider: Curriculum, extracurricular activities, facilities, class size, tuition fees, school culture
- Additional Considerations: Location, student-teacher ratio, special needs programs, alumni network, parent involvement
Traditional Academic Excellence
Ottawa Private Schools at a Glance
Schools, Grades & Type
| School | Grades | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Ashbury College | 4–12 (boarding 9–12) | Co-ed, IB/AP, boarding |
| Elmwood School | PK–12 | All-girls, IB |
| Lycée Claudel | PS–12 | Co-ed, French curriculum |
| Turnbull School | JK–8 | Co-ed day |
| Revel Academy | K–12 | Co-ed, personalized learning |
| Heritage Academy | Varies | Special needs (SMT method) |
| Académie St-Laurent | Daycare–12 | Co-ed, bilingual |
| International School of Ottawa | Varies | IB, international |
Schools, Neighbourhood & Tuition
| School | Neighbourhood | Approx. Annual Tuition* |
|---|---|---|
| Ashbury College | Rockcliffe Park | Day ~$40,900 / Boarding ~$87,700 |
| Elmwood School | Rockcliffe Park | ~$30,000–$35,000 |
| Lycée Claudel | Alta Vista | ~$15,000–$17,000 |
| Turnbull School | Central Ottawa | ~$22,000–$26,000 |
| Revel Academy | Central Ottawa | Contact school |
| Heritage Academy | Ottawa | Contact school |
| Académie St-Laurent | St-Laurent | Contact school |
| International School of Ottawa | Ottawa | Contact school |
*Tuition is approximate and changes each year — confirm current fees directly with each school.
- Ashbury College: Known for its rigorous academic program, Ashbury College is a co-educational boarding and day school in Rockcliffe Park serving Grades 4–12 (boarding from Grade 9). It offers IB and AP programs and a strong tradition of academic achievement. Approximate tuition: ~$40,900/year for day students and ~$87,700 for boarding.
- Elmwood School: This all-girls IB school in Rockcliffe Park (PK–12) emphasizes academic excellence and personal development, with a diverse curriculum and supportive learning environment. Approximate tuition: ~$30,000–$35,000/year.
- Lycée Claudel: For families seeking a French-curriculum education, Lycée Claudel in Alta Vista is an excellent choice. This co-educational school serves PS–Grade 12 and prepares students for bilingual careers. Approximate tuition: ~$15,000–$17,000/year.
- Turnbull School: Located in central Ottawa, Turnbull is an independent co-educational day school for students from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8, known for its nurturing environment and small class sizes. Approximate tuition: ~$22,000–$26,000/year.
- Revel Academy: A forward-thinking private school in central Ottawa serving Kindergarten through Grade 12, Revel Academy emphasizes innovative, personalized learning in a dynamic, inclusive environment. Contact the school for current tuition.
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Specialized Programs and Unique Approaches
- Heritage Academy: This private school specializes in the Simultaneous Multisensory Teaching (SMT) method, which is particularly effective for students with learning differences. Heritage Academy offers a supportive and inclusive environment for students of all abilities.
- Académie St-Laurent Academy: This progressive school emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and social responsibility. Académie St-Laurent Academy offers a personalized learning experience and a strong focus on character development.
- Providence Antonine Sisters Academy: This Catholic school provides a strong spiritual foundation and a rigorous academic curriculum. The school’s Montessori approach fosters independent learning and a love of discovery.
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Boarding Schools and International Programs
- Ashbury College: In addition to its day school program, Ashbury College offers a boarding program for students from around the world. The boarding experience provides opportunities for personal growth, leadership development, and cultural exchange.
- International School of Ottawa: This independent school serves a diverse international community and offers a rigorous curriculum based on the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. The school’s focus on global citizenship and intercultural understanding prepares students for success in a rapidly changing world.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Private School
When selecting a private school, it’s important to consider the following factors:
- Curriculum: Does the school offer academic programs and courses that align with your child’s interests and goals?
- Extracurricular Activities: Are there opportunities for your child to participate in sports, clubs, and other extracurricular activities?
- Facilities: Does the school have modern facilities, including classrooms, laboratories, and athletic fields?
- Class Size: Do the class sizes align with your preferences and your child’s learning style?
- Tuition Fees: Can you afford the tuition fees and associated costs?
- School Culture: Does the school’s philosophy and values align with your family’s beliefs and expectations?
Additional Considerations
Beyond the core factors mentioned above, there are several other aspects to consider when choosing a private school:
- Location: The location of the school can impact factors such as commute times, access to extracurricular activities, and proximity to universities for older students.
- Student-Teacher Ratio: Smaller student-teacher ratios can provide more individualized attention and support.
- Special Needs Programs: If your child has special needs, inquire about the school’s experience and resources in supporting students with disabilities.
- Alumni Network: A strong alumni network can offer valuable connections and support for students after graduation.
- Parent Involvement: Schools that encourage parental involvement often have a more supportive and engaged community.
Conclusion to Ottawa Best Private Schools
Ottawa private schools offer a wide range of educational options to meet the diverse needs and preferences of families. By carefully considering factors such as curriculum, extracurricular activities, facilities, tuition fees, and the additional considerations outlined above, you can select a school that provides the best possible learning experience for your child.
Note: It is recommended to visit schools in person, speak with school administrators, and tour the facilities to get a better sense of the school’s culture and environment. Additionally, you may want to consult with other parents who have children attending private schools in Ottawa for their insights and recommendations.
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Resources: Ottawa Private Schools
This comprehensive guide to “Ottawa best private schools” was brought to you by Jason Polonski, a dedicated Ottawa realtor with a passion for education. As a local expert in real estate, Jason understands the importance of finding the right neighbourhood for families seeking quality education. His knowledge of the Ottawa area, combined with his commitment to helping clients achieve their goals, makes him a valuable resource for those considering private schools.
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Ottawa Private Schools (FAQs)
Tuition for private schools in Ottawa typically ranges from about $15,000 a year at French-curriculum schools such as Lycée Claudel to over $40,000 for day students at Ashbury College, with boarding fees reaching roughly $87,000. Most schools also charge extra for registration, uniforms, technology, and trips, so request a full fee schedule when you apply. Confirm current figures directly with each school, as tuition changes annually.
Many private schools in Ottawa have a strong reputation for academic excellence and rigorous curricula. They often offer advanced placement (AP) courses, International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, and other specialized programs to challenge high-achieving students. However, the level of rigour can vary between schools, so it’s important to research individual institutions to find the best fit for your child’s needs.
Yes, private schools in Ottawa generally offer a wide range of extracurricular activities to cater to diverse interests. These may include sports, clubs, arts programs, and community service opportunities. Participating in extracurricular activities can help students develop new skills, build friendships, and explore their passions.
Class sizes in private schools tend to be smaller than in public schools, allowing for more individualized attention from teachers. This can benefit students who require additional support or prefer a more intimate learning environment. However, the exact class size can vary depending on the school and grade level.
Choosing the right private school for your child involves careful consideration of several factors, including academic programs, extracurricular activities, facilities, tuition fees, and the school’s overall culture and values. It’s recommended to visit schools in person, speak with school administrators, and tour the facilities to get a better sense of the environment. Additionally, you may want to consult with other parents or education experts for advice.
Ashbury College is generally the most expensive private school in Ottawa, with boarding tuition of roughly $87,000 per year and day-student tuition around $40,900. Elmwood School and other independent schools follow, while French-curriculum schools such as Lycée Claudel are typically more affordable at around $15,000 to $17,000 per year.
Yes. Lycée Claudel in Alta Vista offers a full French curriculum from preschool through Grade 12, and Académie St-Laurent provides bilingual education from daycare to Grade 12. Both are popular choices for families seeking French-language or bilingual private education in Ottawa.
Yes. Heritage Academy specializes in the Simultaneous Multisensory Teaching (SMT) method and supports students with learning differences in a structured, inclusive environment. When considering any school for a child with special needs, ask about its experience, dedicated resources, and student-teacher ratio.
