306 Lawrence Avenue East, Toronto, Ontario, M4N 1T7, Canada
15 Madison Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M5R 2S2, Canada
1962
2001
1530
150
Nursery/Toddler to 12
JK to 8
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English, French
English
Academic
Academic
Liberal Arts, International Baccalaureate
Liberal Arts
12 to 22
14 to 20
In-class adaptations
In-class adaptations
$23,070 to $39,020
$19,500 to $23,500
Yes
Yes
0%
0%
7 to 12
None
$35,000
$0
90
14
0%
0%
30%
0%
Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Dec 01, 2023
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades 6 - 12
No
Yes: grades 6 - 12
No
information not available
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The school celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2022, marking the end of an astonishing period of growth and development. The school really did start in a basement, moving from there into a range of branches throughout Toronto, in time consolidating onto the two campuses that the school occupies today. Schools don't grow that much, or that quickly, if they aren't servicing a specific need, and certainly that's true of TFS. The acronym stands for Toronto French School, which is the name that the school was founded with, though in time it was offering a lot more than the name suggested. Language remains an important part of the curriculum, though the culture of the school reaches beyond language. The environment is rich, varied, and supportive. The student body is culturally and academically diverse, all of which is encouraged through a robust bursary program.
View full reportFounded in 2001 by the visionary Australian educator, Jan Howlett, Howlett Academy is an embodiment of educational excellence, situated in the heart of Toronto. Under the guidance of Jan's eldest son, Court Howlett-Ben, the school has grown, while maintaining a student-to-staff ratio of less than 7:1. Howlett Academy distinguishes itself with its carefully crafted curriculum that, in addition to fundamental skills, nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and organizational skills. Embracing change and the unique pace at which each student develops, the school provides multi-age, flexible learning groups and individualized programs. Parents and students appreciate the school's commitment to fostering a respectful, calm learning atmosphere, and a growing sense of independence in students. The Howlett Academy's mission is to ensure its graduates are well-prepared for the demands of secondary education and beyond, embodying the characteristics of confident, organized, lifelong learners engaged with their community.
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" ... teachers who are passionate, dedicated, energetic ..."
Catherine Maule - Parent (Feb 03, 2018)
We chose Howlett for 4 reasons. (1) My daughter (then 7) loved the feel of the classroom: students w...
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"TFS’ mission is to develop multilingual critical thinkers who celebrate difference, transcend borders and strive for the betterment of humankind and the planet. As the pioneer of French immersion in Canada, our education is unparalleled in its excellence, preparing students for success in today’s global world. Bilingual and coed since 1962, TFS teaches the curricula of France and Ontario through the framework of the IB's three programs (PYP, MYP and bilingual Diploma Program). We want our students to be academically ambitious and well-rounded, with an international and intercultural perspective. Our students master French and English, while balancing rigorous science, arts and humanities programs. No prior knowledge of French is required, but all students graduate as bilingual due to our successful Intro program, offered up to Grade 7. TFS students are multi-faceted, passionate learners, who form friendships for life in our supportive community. Co-curricular programs include competitive sports, robotics, music, visual and dramatic arts. Students benefit from exceptional facilities, a 26-acre ravine and a diverse, non-denominational environment. TFS has campuses in Toronto and Mississauga."
"Howlett Academy is a hub for educational excellence, blending innovation with heart. More than a school, it's a transformative journey marked by academic excellence and a nurturing environment. Our devoted faculty blends expertise with empathy, ensuring personalized attention. Embracing diversity, we celebrate each student's uniqueness, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment. At Howlett Academy, education transcends conventional boundaries, cultivating curiosity, critical thinking, and a lifelong love for learning."
"TFS is renowned for its academics. The rigour of our curriculum — in which we teach the curricula of France and Ontario through the framework established by the IB programs — is unparalleled. Our graduates leave TFS with an education that is rich in challenge, diversity and opportunity, and they study in universities and pursue the programs of their choice."
"We provide two full-time teachers per classroom to ensure individualized support and foster academic excellence across all subjects. We offer dynamic extracurriculars, including extensive clubs and sports programs, along with community outreach opportunities to instill social responsibility and holistic development. The learning environment is respectful, calm and fosters a love for learning. Our commitment extends beyond education to shape confident, well-rounded individuals poised for success."
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"Families choose Howlett Academy for its engaging environment, dedicated teachers fostering a love of learning, and positive impact on students' lives. The supportive community, commitment to education, and transformative experiences set it apart, creating a well-rounded and exceptional educational choice."
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"Often under-appreciated is our commitment to fostering independence and executive functioning skills. While families recognize our strong academic focus, they may not fully grasp the profound impact these skills have on their child's long-term success. Howlett Academy uniquely equips students with crucial life skills, laying the foundation for resilience and adaptability in an ever-changing world."
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"Families are pleasantly surprised by our school's vibrant community spirit, where learning extends beyond textbooks. The personalized attention, innovative teaching methods, and emphasis on character development create an educational journey far richer and more transformative than anticipated."
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After working as a Principal with Le Conseil Scolaire Viamonde here in Toronto, and in Georgia before that, as well as a Director of Curriculum in Nigeria and an Athletic Director in Yemen, M. Gaudet arrived at TFS as Principal of the Senior School in 2015, bringing with him an invaluable international perspective. In August 2020, M. Gaudet stepped into his new role of Executive Director of the Learning Forum at TFS. M. Gaudet is a bilingual educator with a master’s degree in educational administration. He has more than 20 years of experience working with high school students. His passion for academic ambition is felt school-wide through his innovative and informed ideas and programs.
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Liberal Arts
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Liberal Arts curricula share with traditional programs their emphasis on core knowledge-acquisition, but tend to borrow more best practices from the progressive approach. A Liberal Arts program might still feature group work and projects, for example, contrary to the more singular emphasis on tests and essays at a Traditional program.
Liberal Arts curricula share with traditional programs their emphasis on core knowledge-acquisition, but tend to borrow more best practices from the progressive approach. A Liberal Arts program might still feature group work and projects, for example, contrary to the more singular emphasis on tests and essays at a Traditional program.
Some private schools offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programming. The "Diploma Programme" is offered to students in the final two years of high school, while the "Primary Years Programme" (ages 3 to 12) and "Middle Years Programme" (ages 11 to 16) serve as preparation for the diploma program.
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Academic ambition is our bedrock. TFS teaches the curricula of France and Ontario through the framework established by the IB programs (PYP, MYP and bilingual IB Diploma Program) from Jardin d'éveil (age 2) to Grade 12 in a fully bilingual French/English environment. We provide our students with an education that is rich in challenge, diversity and opportunity.
Howlett Academy’s academic programs prepare our students for higher order thinking while ensuring they have many opportunities to develop their confidence and self-esteem. Each student develops at a slightly different pace, creating a need for fluid age groupings and an education plan that is tailored towards his or her cognitive, social and emotional needs. If the student is ahead or needs additional help, the education plan will be adjusted accordingly. As the student masters different disciplines, the teacher will adjust the curriculum to encourage and challenge the student to develop higher levels of thought and action. Individual progress is carefully monitored.
Traditional Math
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
Traditional Math typically teaches a method or algorithm FIRST, and THEN teaches the applications for the method. Traditional algorithms are emphasized and practiced regularly: repetition and drills are frequently used to ensure foundational mastery in the underlying mathematical procedures. The traditional approach to math views math education as akin to building a logical edifice: each brick depends on the support of the previously laid ones, which represent mastery over a particular procedure or method. Traditional Math begins by giving students a tool, and then challenges students to practice using that tool an applied way, with progressively challenging problems. In this sense Traditional Math aims to establish procedural understanding before conceptual and applied understanding.
The Mathematics program develops students’ ability to work independently and their aptitude to seek, communicate, and justify mathematical statements. Problem solving and creativity will be integrated in all areas of mathematics.
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Phonics-intensive
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
Systematic-phonics programs teach young children to read by helping them to recognize and sound out the letters and syllables of words. Students are then led to blend these sounds together to sound out and recognize the whole word. While other reading programs might touch on phonetics (either incidentally or on a “when needed” basis), systematic phonics teaches phonics in a specific sequence, and uses extensive repetition and direct instruction to help readers associate specific letter patterns with their associated sounds.
The early reading program focuses on phonics instruction in French and English, with guided reading and levelled literacy that suits individual needs and abilities.
DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
Regular running records and miscue analysis, CTBS testing
Equal balance
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
Cursive writing instruction begins in SK, and students have access to a handwriting app developed by a TFS teacher for the iPad. The writing process is taught thoughout the grades, including writing reflections and reading for authentic purposes, as part of the IB programs.
Equal Balance
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
The study of science is integrated into units of inquiry in the primary grades, emphasizing inquiry-based learning, digital tools and robotics. In Grade 6, science is taught as a specialized subject, leading to biology, chemistry and physics study in later years.
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Zoology
Equal Balance
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
Grades 2-5: Students receive daily instruction in English and French. Language experiences support the Program of Inquiry and fulfil the Ontario curriculum’s Language expectations. The language curriculum is organized into four strands: Reading, Writing, Media Literacy and Oral Communication. In later grades, through our literature program, students will expand their knowledge of literary genres. Reading various kinds of texts will help students to discover what interests them most and to pursue and develop their interests and abilities.
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Core Knowledge
The Thematic approach organizes the curriculum around certain themes or cultural universals. Students might spend time focused on food. Then they might focus on transportation or government, and so on.
Usually focused on teaching history and geography at an early age, the core knowledge approach uses story, drama, reading, and discussion to teach about significant people, places, and events. Breadth of content and knowledge is emphasized. The curriculum is often organized according to the underlying logic of the content: history might be taught sequentially, for example (as students move through the grades).
Students explore social studies through the PYP's program of inquiry, with central ideas and key concepts relating to the themes of who we are, where we are in place and time, how we express ourselves, how the world works, how we organize ourselves and sharing the planet.
Equal Balance
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
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Equal Balance
The communicative method of language acquisition emphasizes the use of the target language in authentic contexts. The approach commonly features interactive group work, games, authentic texts, and opportunities to learn about the cultural background of the language. Drills and quizzes may still be used, but less frequently than with the audio-lingual method.
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
TFS is a bilingual French-English school. In addition to becoming fluent in both languages, students also learn a third language.
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Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
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Equal Balance
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
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Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Light integration
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Computers are used in the classroom from time to time, but integrating technology into everything students do is not a dominant focus. Digital literacy is understood to be a legitimate skill in the 21st century, but not one that should distract from teaching the subject at hand, or more fundamental skills and literacies. The idea is today’s students, being “digital natives”, are likely exposed to computers and new media enough outside the classroom: the role of the school, rather, should be to develop competencies that may otherwise get missed.
TFS has made the integration of information technology into the curriculum a priority. Students have access to a wide array of technology, including Apple laptops and desktops, iPads, digital cameras, production equipment, robotics, interactive whiteboards and projectors in every classroom, and much more.
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Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Health and Physical Education courses are part of the regular curriculum. TFS appreciates the benefits of physical activity to academic performance. Students with higher levels of fitness have a more developed brain structure, perform better on cognitive tests, and have heightened levels of focus and retention. Skating and swimming programs are scheduled throughout the year as part of the curriculum in different grades.
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Academic
Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.
Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.
From Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 1, TFS teaches the curricula of the Ministry of Education of Ontario and the Ministry of Education of France through the framework of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Organization. From the moment children join TFS, through Grade 1 (CP), they are instructed only in French. Children quickly embrace the language and are gently encouraged to increase their use of French during classroom activities. As of Grade 2 through high school, the language of instruction of the various subjects is approximately 30% in English and 70% in French.
Throughout the day the teachers will work with individual children, small groups and the whole class. The kindergarten curriculum is based on a mastery approach to education, whereby fundamentals and concepts are repeatedly taught until the student has grasped a strong understanding of the material. Once proficient, new and more challenging material is introduced. Guided-played is used as a tool to help enhance the child’s cognitive, social and physical development. The kindergarten curriculum is well-planned and modified for those who are ahead or need additional help. Individual progress is carefully monitored.
Accelerated
The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).
The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).
Flexible and self-paced programs include Math XL and Mathletics, coding, digital citizenship programs.
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Rigorous
A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.
A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.
Howlett Academy’s academic programs prepare our students for higher order thinking while ensuring they have many opportunities to develop their confidence and self-esteem. Each student develops at a slightly different pace, creating a need for fluid age groupings and an education plan that is tailored towards his or her cognitive, social and emotional needs. If the student is ahead or needs additional help, the education plan will be adjusted accordingly.
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
"We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
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RecreationalRec. |
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RecreationalRec. |
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Badminton |
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Fencing |
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Racquet Ball |
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Rugby |
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Running |
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Sailing |
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Skateboarding |
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Snowboarding |
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Soccer |
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Softball |
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Squash |
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Ultimate |
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
7 - 12
0%
0%
$35,000
$0
30%
0%
Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Dec 01, 2023
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades 6 - 12
No
Yes: grades 6 - 12
No
Yes: grades 6 - 12
No
Yes: grades 2 - 12
No
No
No
No
No
High average to excellent academic performance; motivated and determined; respectful of others; positive attitude; makes a positive contribution to TFS; values a bilingual education; internationally minded; parents are committed to the TFS vision, mission and values.
Admissions application plus:
Our admission process is relaxed and informal. It begins with a tour and a conversation. A few spaces are open for next year and we welcome your interest.
306 Lawrence Avenue East, Toronto, Ontario, M4N 1T7, Canada
15 Madison Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M5R 2S2, Canada
