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Trusted by families since 1998.
Trafalgar School For Girls logo
OUR KIDS REPORT:

Trafalgar School For Girls

Grades 7 — 11 — Montreal, QC (Map)
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THE OUR KIDS REPORT:
Trafalgar School For Girls
REPORT CONTENTS
Reviews
Analysis

School overview

  • LOCATION
    Montreal, QC (View address)

The big picture on Trafalgar School For Girls

We summarized the school ourselves

Trafalgar was founded in 1871, and as many girls' schools from that time, the intention was very forward thinking: to provide opportunities for girls. There weren’t any universities yet admitting girls, yet, even so, Donald Ross, a businessman, gave a substantial piece of his estate to house the school. Other supporters of a like mind quickly followed. Times, happily, have changed, though a need to empower and inspire girls remains, something that Traf continues to do. The leadership of today’s school is notably consistent, as is the commitment to developing programs to meet the needs of today’s students. But the tradition is important too, and for many girls, the knowledge that they sit in the same space, conceptually, as so many young women before them, can itself be empowering and motivating. The ideal student is on able to thrive in a challenging, diverse learning environment, and preparing for post-secondary education.

We questioned the school administration

1. Who are you, as a school?

"Trafalgar School for Girls has been fostering independent girls for 140 years in an intimate learning environment where every individual is challenged to learn and grow. With an optimal student-teacher ratio and an average class size of 10-15 students, each student is seen and finds their voice. We offer focused developmental approaches for Middle and Senior school and offer a host of signature programs in leadership, health and well being, Mon Montréal and World School Forum and a post-secondary Prep Program."

2. What do you do differently and uniquely well?

At Trafalgar, we create a space where girls feel empowered to be themselves. Confidence, compassion, and leadership are at the heart of everything we do. Our CoLab program with McGill University connects students to hands-on research and experiential learning. Through the World School International Forum, our students represent Canada on the global stage, learning from peers around the world and building leadership skills that extend beyond the classroom. Alongside a strong curriculum, students have access to a full range of sports, arts, and co-curricular opportunities in a supportive all-girls environment.

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

Rather than tradeoffs, Trafalgar’s approach reflects intentional choices. Our size allows us to create close connections between students and teachers while still offering a full range of programs, sports, and co-curricular opportunities found at much larger schools. This focused environment fosters a strong community where every student is known, supported, and encouraged to thrive academically, socially, and personally.

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

Founded in 1887, Trafalgar is Montreal’s oldest English private school for girls. A pivotal moment came when we became the first school to send female graduates to McGill University, cementing our tradition of academic excellence and leadership. Over the years, programs like CoLab and World School have reinforced our commitment to innovation, global perspective, and preparing young women to engage confidently with the world around them.

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

A Trafalgar student is curious, resilient, and excited to take on leadership opportunities. She thrives in an all-girls environment where her voice is heard, enjoys exploring a wide range of interests—from arts to STEAM—and actively participates in co-curricular activities and community initiatives. She is motivated to learn and eager to make a positive impact in her community and beyond.

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

Trafalgar might not be the best fit for students who prefer a co-ed environment or who are looking for a very large school setting. Families who cannot fully embrace our community-focused culture or our values of curiosity, resilience, and leadership may also find that our school is not the right fit.

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

Families choose Trafalgar because of our all-girls environment, which gives students the confidence to grow, explore, and express themselves. They value our strong academics, innovative programs like CoLab, and opportunities to engage globally through World School. Our history and legacy in advancing girls’ education, combined with a vibrant student culture and inclusive community, create a learning experience that develops leadership, personal growth, and social responsibility.

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

Trafalgar is seen as a historic, prestigious school dedicated to girls’ education. We are known for fostering confident, compassionate leaders through strong academics, innovative programs, and a supportive all-girls environment. Our community spirit, focus on leadership, and commitment to global learning enhance our reputation.

9. What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

Our emphasis on wellness and social-emotional learning often goes unnoticed. The Healthy Minds program teaches empathy, resilience, and self-awareness, giving students the tools to navigate life confidently. While academics and history often get attention, this focus on personal growth is central to who we are.

10. What might families find surprising about your school?

Families are often surprised by how modern and dynamic Trafalgar is. Our STEAM labs, creative spaces, and hands-on learning opportunities show that we are forward-thinking while honoring our history. Our downtown Montreal location also gives students easy access to cultural and educational experiences that enrich learning beyond the classroom.

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

We continue to enhance programs that combine academics, leadership, and real-world learning. The CoLab program offers students hands-on research opportunities, and the Healthy Minds program provides workshops and resources for social-emotional growth. Trafalgar’s participation in the World School International Forum connects students globally, helping them develop empathy, diplomacy, and leadership skills while representing Canada on the world stage.

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

In the next five years, Trafalgar will expand opportunities within CoLab and World School, giving students more chances to engage in research, global learning, and collaborative projects. The Healthy Minds program will continue to grow, supporting students’ social-emotional development. Our focus remains on combining academic excellence with leadership, wellness, and global awareness—preparing young women to thrive at school, in their communities, and on the world stage.


 

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