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Trusted by families since 1998.
Crawford Adventist Academy logo
OUR KIDS REPORT:

Crawford Adventist Academy

Grades JK — 12 — North York, ON (Map)
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School Busing:

Crawford offers bus transferring. Service options offered are regular rider, occasional rider.

The regions Crawford offers busing from are:

THE OUR KIDS REPORT:
Crawford Adventist Academy
REPORT CONTENTS
Reviews
Analysis

School overview

  • Grades
    JK — 12
  • Gender
    Coed
  • Class Size
    15 students
  • Tuition
    $10,500 to 26,900/year
  • Language of instruction
    English
  • Special Needs Support
    Withdrawal Assistance
  • Enrolment
    450 day students
  • Curriculum
    Traditional
  • Associations
    AP
  • LOCATION
    North York, ON (View address)

The big picture on Crawford Adventist Academy

We summarized the school ourselves

Crawford is one of those schools that, for whatever reason, has flown a bit below the radar. It was established in 1953 with a dedication to providing a close-knit learning environment based in Christian teaching. The community is a highlight, to be sure, and while families are attracted to the academic program, and the values that inform it, it’s the community that alumni speak of first as the thing they appreciated most while there. Spaces are clean, open, and the campus has a welcome polished feel. While not an international school per se, students are attracted from overseas, and homestay programs are arranged in partnership with the school. The international students add a diversity to the population, and add dimension to the student experience. The ideal student is one preparing to advance to university programs in North America.

We questioned the school administration

1. Who are you, as a school?

"Established in 1953, Crawford is committed to the holistic development of our students through academic excellence, spiritual nurture, enhancement of social & physical abilities. With an emphasis in music, science, technology, sports, we are a balanced, co-ed family of schools - campus locations in North York (Main JK-12), Pickering (East JK-8) & Mississauga (Peel JK-8) - that successfully develops students for post-secondary education & their chosen career path and to remain committed to a lifestyle of service."

  • Crawford strives to provide our students with opportunities to connect in the community.
  • Our music groups regularly perform in church worship services and community events.

2. What do you do differently and uniquely well?

We blend rigorous academics with the values of Christian character education, developing both the minds and hearts of our students. Our Christ-centred approach is linked with smaller class sizes and personalized instruction, ensuring that teachers are attuned to each student’s unique strengths and aspirations. We prioritize active participation in music, sports, and science, utilizing extracurricular opportunities to reinforce leadership, teamwork, and responsibility. Distinctively, our school culture encourages community engagement and service, with students actively involved in music ministry and outreach projects. Through holistic education, including spiritual growth, critical thinking, and physical activity, we prepare students to excel academically and become compassionate, effective leaders, surpassing the boundaries of traditional schooling.

3. What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?

To maintain small class sizes and provide personalized, holistic Christian education, we focus resources on critical programs, music, science, athletics, and faith formation, occasionally limiting the range of specialized electives or luxury amenities. This ensures depth and quality in student experiences and community engagement.

4. What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?

Crawford Adventist Academy’s journey began in 1953, when the Willowdale Seventh-day Adventist Church opened Toronto Junior Academy to serve the educational needs of its children. The addition of a purpose-built facility, made possible by the generosity of Dr. Erwin Crawford, set the stage for growth and innovation, and his name became an inspiration for the school's identity. In 1978, the creation of the Toronto Adventist District School Board united local Adventist churches in a shared vision for holistic education, providing stability, resources, and governance as the school expanded. Responding to community demands, the academy added junior high and high school grades in the early 1980s. The 1990s and 2000s saw further milestones as new campuses opened in Pickering (East) and Mississauga (Peel), allowing Crawford to serve a growing and diverse student body. Each expansion reflected Crawford’s core mission: to deliver Christ-centred, whole-person education for students across the Gre

5. What type of student is a good fit for your school?

Crawford Adventist Academy is ideal for students and families who value a well-rounded, faith-based education integrating academic rigour with spiritual, musical, and athletic pursuits. Students who engage deeply in community service, appreciate small class environments, and actively nurture personal integrity and leadership skills thrive here. We welcome those eager to ask questions, seek growth beyond academics, and show respect for diversity. Students do not have to be Seventh-day Adventist, but must be open to a Christ-centred environment. A genuine desire to contribute positively, embrace service opportunities, and balance study with extracurricular involvement are key indicators of fit within our supportive and caring school community.

6. Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?

If a family prefers an academically focused institution without integration of Christian principles, Crawford may not align with their desires. Our curriculum is Christ-centred, and participation in religious activities is integral. Those looking for highly specialized academic or extracurricular tracks, such as extensive Advanced Placement courses or elite athletic programs, may not find their preferences met. Families uncomfortable with regular faith-based instruction, required community service, or engagement in music and the arts may feel out of place. Furthermore, if a student is disinclined toward community engagement, active participation, or upholding our core values of service and respect, alternate schools may better accommodate their educational needs and values.

7. To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?

Families are drawn to Crawford Adventist Academy by our holistic, Christ-centred education, which consistently yields high academic achievement, a compassionate peer culture, and a strong sense of community. Our proven record for university acceptance, individualized attention in small classes, and rich musical and athletic programs attract those looking for comprehensive student growth. Active engagement in service and a supportive, nurturing ethos that prioritizes both spiritual and academic development make our school stand out as a trusted, well-rounded choice.

8. How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?

Crawford Adventist Academy enjoys a strong reputation in the community as a trusted provider of Christian education. We are recognized for our unwavering commitment to academic excellence, character building, and service. The public perceives us as producing well-rounded graduates who succeed academically, contribute positively to their communities, and demonstrate spiritual maturity. Our music and sports involvement are highly regarded, and our supportive environment attracts families desiring a safe, constructive learning setting. Relationships built with local churches and community organizations further validate our standing as an institution dedicated to both scholastic and societal betterment, making us a preferred option for holistic education.

9. What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

Our robust music program is often underrecognized for the transformative impact it has on student confidence and community connection. From early grades, students engage in music lessons and ensemble performances at church services and public events, encouraging teamwork, discipline, and expression. Another underappreciated area is our deep focus on early literacy, which sees even Senior Kindergarten students achieving reading skills well above the norm, providing a foundation for long-term academic success. The seamless integration of faith with curriculum, where values, service, and academics reinforce each other, may also go unnoticed compared to standardized achievements. Families who choose us often comment on the strong bonds formed, the genuine care among staff and peers, and the real-world readiness their children gain.

10. What might families find surprising about your school?

The high university acceptance rate, despite our moderate school size, often impresses newcomers. They may not expect the breadth and quality of music and sports opportunities, or the warmth of our close-knit, supportive school community, all distinguishing features that set us apart from typical private schools.

11. What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

Crawford Adventist Academy has invested in the improvement and expansion of our facilities, including updated classrooms and gymnasiums across campuses. Recent upgrades in technology have enhanced both teaching and student learning. Our music and science programs have been expanded, and new wellness and academic support systems have been implemented to address students’ evolving needs. Additionally, safety and accessibility improvements ensure our campuses remain inviting and secure. These enhancements reflect a continued commitment to high-quality, holistic education.

12. How will your school change in the next 5 years?

In the next five years, Crawford will prioritize further campus upgrades, expand elementary and JK capacity, and enrich reading and STEM initiatives. Plans include broadening community and church partnerships, implementing new leadership programs, and deepening our commitment to personalized student support, ensuring all learners flourish spiritually, academically, and socially.


We got insight from alumni, parents, and students

Crawford Adventist Academy: Alumni Review from Emily Trillana

Watch our alum interview with Emily Trillana to learn about the unique experience of attending Crawford Adventist Academy.
Crawford Adventist Academy, Alumnus Video Review from Emily Trillana

Alumnus, Kimberley Springer (2021)

(4.7)

My experience at Crawford was transformational. I had the opportunity to learn practical life skills that were essential to my development and growth as a young adult. Crawford is set apart as they not only enhance the spiritual aspect of a student but also provide a range of engagement activities that connect you with community initiatives. I had the opportunity to attend several community activities that connected me with scholarship opportunities for my next steps after leaving high school. One of the highlights of attending this school was the opportunity to participate in out of the country trips by way of the stellar music program. The school environment provides a family-oriented atmosphere where many of the students you meet will definitely become quality life-long friendships.

 

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