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Trusted by families since 1998.
St. Andrew's College logo
OUR KIDS REPORT:

St. Andrew's College

Grades 5 — 12 — Aurora, ON (Map)
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School Busing:

St. Andrew's College offers bus transferring. Service options offered are regular rider AM only.

The regions St. Andrew's College offers busing from are:

Additional notes: SAC offers a luxury shuttle service with a maximum seating of 21 students. The bus only operates in the morning as afternoon schedules vary for each student depending on co-curricular engagements. Students must be registered to take the bus ahead of September and seats are offered on a first come, first served basis.

THE OUR KIDS REPORT:
St. Andrew's College
REPORT CONTENTS
Reviews
Analysis

School overview

  • Grades
    5 — 12
  • Gender
    All boys
  • Class Size
    17 students
  • Tuition
    $44,825 to 84,435/year
  • Language of instruction
    English
  • Associations
    CAIS, EMA, CIS Ontario
  • Enrolment
    408 day students, 263 boarding students
  • Curriculum
    Traditional
  • EBROCHURE
    View eBrochure
  • LOCATION
    Aurora, ON (View address)

The big picture on St. Andrew's College

We summarized the school ourselves

The program at St. Andrew’s has long been distinguished by a high rate of success, with the list of notable alums providing an abbreviated who’s who of Canadian arts, leaders, politics, and entrepreneurship. While Dr. Bruce Macdonald left the headmastership in 1935, the culture of the school, even today, remains very much an expression of his vision. This is in part due to the fact that, in a lot of ways, he was well ahead of his time. For example, he was the first boys-school headmaster in Canada to hire a female instructor, something he did in 1905. Macdonald wanted the school to develop “the complete man, the well-rounded citizen”—athletics and arts, in addition to academics, were vigorously promoted. What’s interesting is that, even with those sorts of progressive ideals, Macdonald was also keen on tradition, which gave students a sense of being part of something bigger than themselves. While there are a few schools that retain their cadet corps, St. Andrew’s is the one that has retained it entirely intact, with military ranks, pipes and drums, kilts, and sporrans all firmly still in place. St. Andrew's completed a substantial capital campaign in 2015 that included the creation of athletics facilities as well as the Wirth Theatre. All of that, as well as all the development over the century of the school’s life, has created a school that is strikingly modern while retaining a sense of participation in tradition. It’s a nice mix. The ideal student is one given to making the most of the varied programs on offer.

We questioned the school administration

1. Who are you, as a school?

"St. Andrew's College (SAC) is a leading independent school for boys, offering a rigorous academic program within a vibrant, activity-rich environment. Our mission to "develop the complete man, the well-rounded citizen" is realized through a blend of academics, athletics, arts, and leadership. With 72 representative teams across 21 sports, internationally recognized arts and music programs, and a commitment to character education, SAC prepares boys for top universities and meaningful lives. Our 126-acre campus supports both day and boarding students, fostering lifelong friendships and a deep sense of community. "

  • Founded in 1899
  • Excellent university placement record
  • $62M in new facilities & renovations
  • 72 rep. teams across 21 sports
  • Strong arts, music, and drama programs
  • Business, leadership, and robotics programs
  • Financial aid and scholarships available
  • 126-acre campus

2. What do you do differently and uniquely well?

SAC is built on the belief that boys thrive when they are challenged, supported, and inspired. We offer an authentic curriculum that taps into boys' natural curiosity and need for purpose. Our educators understand the nuances of masculinity and create space for boys to explore their full selves – intellectually, emotionally, and creatively. Chapel, advisory, and co-curriculars are woven into daily life, promoting self-reflection, eloquence, and integrity. SAC's culture encourages boys to be expressive, empathetic, and engaged.

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

To maintain our commitment to holistic development, SAC prioritizes depth over breadth. We invest heavily in boarding life, character education, and co-curricular programming, with a focus on Advanced Placement in Upper School. Our boys-only academic model is complemented by shared co-curriculars through our Partnerhood with St. Anne's School, balancing tradition with evolving community needs.

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

Founded in 1899, SAC has evolved from a small boarding school in Toronto to a globally respected institution. Milestones include the expansion to our Aurora campus, the development of the Andrean Diploma, and the integration of leadership and innovation programs. The launch of St. Anne's School reflects a commitment to collaboration while preserving our core identity as a boys' school.

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

SAC is ideal for boys who are curious, active, and eager to grow. Whether academically driven, artistically inclined, athletically passionate, or socially engaged, our students thrive in a community that values balance and character. We welcome boys who are ready to challenge themselves, contribute to others, and embrace the responsibilities of school life.

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

St. Andrew's College is not an ordinary place; it's a community built on full participation. Our students are expected to engage deeply in all aspects of school life: academics, athletics, arts, leadership, and co-curricular programming. This all-in mentality is central to the SAC experience. Families seeking flexibility or a more narrowly focused academic path may find our approach less aligned with their expectations. SAC is best suited for boys and families, ready to embrace the full spectrum of opportunities and responsibilities that come with being an Andrean.

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

Families choose St. Andrew's College for its proven ability to develop well-rounded young men. Our academic excellence, vibrant co-curriculars, and strong sense of community consistently earn high praise. Parents value our commitment to project-based learning, community service, and the development of leadership and character. SAC is known for instilling strong values, including integrity, respect, and responsibility, that guide boys throughout their lives. Above all, it's the brotherhood that sets SAC apart: a deep, enduring connection among students that fosters belonging, loyalty, and lifelong friendships. This camaraderie is matched by a culture of giving back, where boys are encouraged to serve others, contribute meaningfully to their communities, and graduate with a strong sense of purpose.

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

SAC is widely recognized as a leading independent school for boys in Canada. Our reputation is built on academic excellence, university placement success, and a commitment to developing the complete man. With a 126-acre campus and over a century of tradition, SAC is known for its school spirit, strong alumni network, and enduring values.

9. What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

Our arts programs – visual, musical, and dramatic – are among the most dynamic in the country, yet often overshadowed by our athletic reputation. SAC's commitment to creativity and self-expression is woven through our culture. We are proud to have award-winning teachers leading these programs, inspiring boys to compete at the highest musical levels and stage productions that rival professional theatre, while also shining on the sports fields. Our Stratford-inspired stage is a centrepiece of campus life, where students bring stories to life with passion and precision. Artistry is celebrated as a vital part of the human experience, and boys are encouraged to explore it fully.

10. What might families find surprising about your school?

Families are often surprised by the depth of emotional intelligence and self-reflection embedded in our programming. SAC is committed to helping boys become their most authentic selves – thoughtful, expressive, and grounded in strong values. We foster an environment where boys are encouraged to be eloquent, empathetic, and engaged, not just academically, but as citizens of the world. Through advisory, community service, and daily interactions, students learn to lead with integrity, listen with compassion, and build meaningful relationships.

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

Since 2012, St. Andrew's College has invested over $65 million in facility enhancements to support student growth and innovation. We opened the Yuill Family Athletic Complex, featuring an all-weather turf field, baseball diamond, and outdoor track. The La Brier Family Arena provides a state-of-the-art space for hockey and fitness. Our Centre for Leadership, Innovation, and Performance fosters creativity and collaboration across disciplines. We also modernized our science and technology facilities to support hands-on learning and future-ready skills. Most notably, we opened St. Anne's School across the road, deepening our commitment to shared co-curricular partnerships while maintaining our boys-only academic model.

In addition, we launched our Legacy Campaign to grow SAC's Endowment Fund to $100 million. This initiative ensures continued support for deserving students who otherwise wouldn't be able to attend the school, and it enables us to further enhance our programming. We are prou

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

SAC is committed to continuous improvement. In the next five years, we will expand our leadership and innovation programming, enhance boarding facilities, and deepen our Partnerhood with St. Anne's School. We are also investing in digital infrastructure and personalized learning tools to better support student growth.


We got insight from alumni, parents, and students

St. Andrew's College: Alumni Review from Troy Tsai

Watch our alum interview with Troy Tsai to learn about the unique experience of attending St. Andrew's College.
St. Andrew's College, Alumnus Video Review from Troy Tsai

St. Andrew's College: Alumni Review from Bryce Neil

Watch our alum interview with Bryce Neil to learn about the unique experience of attending St. Andrew's College.
St. Andrew's College, Alumnus Video Review from Bryce Neil

St. Andrew's College: Alumni Review from Xander Smith

Watch our alum interview with Xander Smith to learn about the unique experience of attending St. Andrew's College.
St. Andrew's College, Alumnus Video Review from Xander Smith

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