Boys and girls have the same capacity to learn, but they often learn in different ways and have distinct interests. An all-boys private school may offer distinct educational benefits. Read more
Access school reviews, insights, and comparisons through our comprehensive reports below.
These are the leading schools that Our Kids editors have covered most extensively so far, providing detailed insights and thorough analysis of their programs, student life, and more.
"St. George's School in Vancouver offers university-preparatory program to Canadian and International boarding students from Grade 8 to 12. The School's mission: Building Fine Young Men. One Boy at a Time.
—From the school
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"Crescent School is an independent day school for boys in Grades 1 to 12 in Toronto. Our relational learning environment develops students' character through academics, arts, athletics, business, outreach and robotics.
—From the school
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"At Upper Canada College tradition, excellence and innovation meet. UCC inspires boys to lead lives of leadership, service and impact through transformative learning experiences that develop head, heart and humanity.
—From the school
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"Our vision: Life-long Georgians ready to use their scholarship, compassion, conscience and courage to make a difference. Our mission: To challenge and inspire each boy to become the best version of himself.
—From the school
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"With a global network of schools around the world, a rich and proud history, and a strong and unique set of core values, Sacred Heart offers not just an education but an experience that is unparalleled in Nova Scotia.
—From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario York Mills Road/Don Mills Road "We value partnership with parents, creating a genuinely warm and friendly community. We raise the academic bar on academic excellence, and expectations of character, helping the boys become the best that they can be." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario Dufferin Avenue/401 Highway "The Sterling Hall School understands how boys learn best. Teacher relationships and extensive co-curriculars empower and inspire each boy. Our focus on learning, character and community ensure all boys belong." —From the school
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 Aurora, Ontario St. John's Sideroad/Yonge Street "With a tradition dating back to 1899, St. Andrew's remains the single largest all-boys boarding school in Canada. Our 126-acre campus provides our students with an ideal setting for learning and growth." —From the school
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 Calgary, Alberta Crowchild Trail/Flanders Ave. SW "Clear Water Academy, a traditional private Catholic school in Calgary, offering Jr. Kindergarten–Grade 12. Our University Prep Program has a 100% acceptance rate, forming Christian leaders who will transform society." —From the school
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 Calgary, Alberta 17th Ave SW/Richmond Road SW "In addition to academics, our focus on mentorship, hands-on learning in and outside the classroom, and character development, will allow our students to thrive academically and personally as they discover who they are." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario Duplex Ave/St Clements Ave "At SCELS we believe giving children an early education will build a solid foundation to prepare them for their next school setting." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario Bathurst St./St. Clair West "Canada’s only independent, Catholic school for boys in Grades 7-12, taught in the Basilian tradition of forming the mind, body, and soul. Since 1852, we have educated students in goodness, discipline, and knowledge." —From the school
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 Oakville, Ontario "We know boys have different learning styles. Research shows that boys learn differently and socialize in their own distinct ways. We also know through research that boys thrive in an all-boys’ learning environment." —From the school
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Studies show that boys tend to score lower than girls in reading and writing tests. Boys' schools are designed to meet boys where they are, using teaching strategies that improve focus, engagement, and ultimately, academic success.
In an all-boys environment, students are encouraged to step into roles they might shy away from in a coed setting. They are guided to participate fully in school life and take ownership of their learning and development.
Single-sex schools can offer a more open atmosphere, free of stereotypes. Boys are free to express themselves emotionally and explore interests without fear of judgment. Learn more about this dynamic here.
Without gender-based expectations, boys feel more comfortable pursuing interests in arts, literature, or theatre, alongside sports and STEM. This encourages exploration and helps them discover new academic and career possibilities.
Boys' schools support hands-on, active learning environments that boost confidence and comprehension. Brad Adams, Executive Director of the International Boys’ School Coalition, emphasizes the role of sensitive, high-quality teaching in keeping boys motivated and successful.
Younger boys often benefit the most from this environment. Kathryn Kirkland, head of Junior School at Royal St. George’s College, notes that many boys begin school developmentally behind girls. Boys' schools support them where they are and help close the gap early.
Boys at single-gender schools still have ample opportunities to interact with girls through extracurriculars and community programs. As graduate Mark points out, transitioning to a coed university environment can be smooth when you've been well-prepared academically and socially.
Successful boys’ schools begin with how boys learn—through movement, competition, and hands-on experience. These environments are also tuned into the areas boys tend to struggle in, like reading and writing, offering specialized support.
While sports are often a strong point, boys' schools increasingly emphasize the arts. Fine arts studios, music rooms, and performance spaces are common and boys are encouraged to explore these creative outlets freely.
In a boys-only setting, students naturally take the lead. They're more active in class discussions and explore a broader range of ideas without the pressure to conform to traditional gender roles.
Boys’ schools foster emotional intelligence by creating safe spaces to express feelings and develop empathy. This helps students form stronger peer and adult relationships and builds long-term mental wellness.
Boys are more prone to risky behaviours and learning difficulties, according to global research. Boys’ schools tackle these challenges head-on through fitness programs, emotional support, and open conversations in school assemblies and curriculum.
Educators at boys’ schools set clear expectations while encouraging boys to reach their full potential. They celebrate the unique journey of boyhood and equip students with the tools to grow into confident, responsible young men.
What does “individualized education” actually look like?
Building a strategic academic pathway from the early years
At Hudson College, learning to write is a developmental journey that shapes how students think, communicate, understand, and interact with the world around them.
A program designed for young boys
How Mindful Career helps students build a roadmap for the future
Small class sizes, inquiry-driven learning, and a focus on well-being have created an environment that nurtures confident and curious learners
All-boys schools: coed versus single-sex
Comparing boys' schools to coed schools (October 17, 2019)
Guide to private schools for boys
A look at all-boys education (August 15, 2019)
Allowing boys to be boys at St. Andrew's College
(August 14, 2019)
How boys' schools are changing
(August 14, 2019)
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