Crescent School operates summer camps and programs. Click here to learn about Crescent Camps.
The 50-page review of Crescent School is part of our series of in-depth accounts of Canada's leading private schools. It provides a unique and objective perspective on the school's academics, programs, culture, and community.
Read our in-depth review"Crescent School has been a leader in boys’ education since 1913. Our mission, Men of Character from Boys of Promise, drives our academic and co-curricular programs and guides students as they learn about who they are, how they can lead and the legacy they can leave behind. Our dedicated faculty is committed to active, experiential and relational learning which brings out the best in boys. We cultivate excellence in academics, arts, athletics, business, outreach and robotics on a beautiful state-of-the-art campus."
Character development is the defining feature of a Crescent education. Crescent has identified 12 character competencies and incorporated them into the school's curriculum and co-curricular programs, including our signature Character-in-Action programs in the Arts, Athletics, Business, Outreach, and Robotics. Crescent students frequently reflect upon the questions: Who am I? How do I lead? And what is my legacy?
Crescent is one of the only GTA schools with a full-service lunch program included in tuition. Shared meals and the social interaction during communal dining are essential to building community at Crescent.
The development of Men of Character from Boys of Promise happens best when fostered by a supportive relationship between school and family. This partnership is key to your son’s success, and we aim to make Crescent a rewarding experience for the entire family.
We focus on character education and building a close community, meaning we invest more energy in mentoring, fostering strong relationships, and developing co-curricular programs. This type of effort places significant time demands on our faculty and staff, who are deeply committed to educating boys, relational learning and character development throughout the Crescent journey.
Small class sizes and a selective admissions process help create a culture where every boy is known; however, this approach limits overall enrolment. Crescent has an acceptance rate of approximately one student for every six applicants, disappointing many prospective families.
Founded in 1913 as a “kinder, gentler” alternative to traditional boys’ schools, Crescent School has always emphasized character and care. In the 1930s, the curriculum expanded to include the arts, a forward-thinking move at the time. Our multi-disciplined arts program continues to be a signature part of the School’s curricular and co-curricular offerings. Moving to the Bayview campus in 1970 allowed the School to add high school grades and significantly expand programs and the student population. The School’s 2021 acquisition of the Bob Rumball Centre property holds an as-yet-to-be-determined opportunity for future growth and evolution.
Crescent is best suited for intellectually curious boys who want to grow as leaders and individuals, are involved in their local and school communities, and are compassionate and respectful to others and themselves. Some traits we look for in our applicants are boys who are effective collaborators, who take and share responsibility, and who reflect on their thoughts, feelings, and actions. There is a vast array of opportunities to get involved outside the classroom, which is essential in rounding out a Crescent education. Boys who like to try new things, actively pursue their interests and passions, and are willing to learn from their mistakes are best suited to take full advantage of the Crescent experience.
While rigorous, the School prioritizes character and mentorship over pure academic achievement or competition. Crescent suits families who value the School’s mission, its close community, and holistic development. Crescent is not for families looking for the most expedient pathway to get into an Ivy League university. Families interested in the IB program or a less competitive admissions process may want to consider alternatives.
Families choose Crescent School because they believe we can help develop their sons to be well-rounded individuals who will have positive impacts on the world. Our families' values align with our School's values and they believe that Crescent is an environment that will foster their son's growth both academically and emotionally.
Crescent is known as a leader in boys’ education, strongly committed to character development and academic success. The School has a warm, inclusive reputation balanced by respect for tradition. We are recognized for producing well-rounded young men ready to take on leadership roles and positively contribute to society.
Our staff practice a culture of care. Everyone from faculty members to our Facilities team shares a responsibility for the boys' well-being. Daily positive interactions, whether large or small, help our boys feel welcome, seen, and cared for.
Crescent is a warm and welcoming school with a very active and engaged parent community. There is a very strong partnership between Crescent School and parents. Crescent School strives to be a place where every boy belongs and where every boy is known, valued and understood.
Crescent completed a major campus enhancement project in the summer of 2026. At the heart of the project is a state-of-the-art community hall that serves as a dining space and hub for connection and school spirit. We also created a new entrance and common areas to give Lower and Upper School students improved access and a stronger sense of identity. Financial assistance is a strategic priority, supported by the Crescent School Foundation endowment, which has more than doubled in the past decade. Our plan is to double it again in five years, advancing our vision of one day becoming needs-blind so that no deserving boy is denied a Crescent education due to financial limitations. Crescent continues to embed 12 core character competencies across all courses and co-curricular activities. This intentional emphasis helps students actively reflect on their character journey throughout their time at Crescent.
Crescent has identified four strategic domains to guide the school through 2030.
Academics: We’ll enhance boy-centric, experiential learning and co-curriculars; reimagine Student Services to support well-being, engagement, and belonging; and invest in character education and advanced technologies to ensure Crescent’s relevance, sustainability, and long-term leadership.
People: We’ll support professional learning, student and faculty research, and parent education; strengthen our team through a robust talent strategy; and expand recruitment efforts to ensure an exceptional Crescent education experience.
Community: We’ll nurture a strong culture of philanthropy; deepen alumni bonds; and grow the endowment to sustain Crescent’s mission for generations to come.
Campus: We’ll celebrate the completion of our campus enhancement project; expand infrastructure and auxiliary programs; and invest in long-term stewardship of our campus and ravine.
Hear directly from Crescent School families and alumni as they share insights.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
By logging in or creating an account, you agree to Our Kids' Terms and Conditions. Information presented on this page may be paid advertising provided by the advertisers [schools/camps/programs] and is not warranted or guaranteed by OurKids.net or its associated websites. By using this website, creating or logging into an Our Kids account, you agree to Our Kids' Terms and Conditions. Please also see our Privacy Policy. Our Kids ™ © 2023 All rights reserved.
