Top 10 Schools in Scarborough for Families in 2026
Looking at schools before choosing a neighbourhood in Scarborough? Here’s a parent-friendly shortlist framework, how to evaluate catchments, and smart ways to align school choice with your next home purchase.
Top 10 Schools Shortlist (2026)
Every family’s “top” list is unique. Use this shortlist as a starting framework and confirm details on official board pages. For deeper info and map links, see our Scarborough Schools resource.
| # | School (placeholder) | Type | Known For | Neighbourhood Vibe | Home Search Links |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | French/Immersion Elementary (TDSB) | Public | Early French, strong arts | Walkable, parks nearby | All listings · Semis |
| 2 | STEM-Focused Elementary (TDSB) | Public | Math clubs, coding, robotics | Quiet streets, family blocks | Townhomes |
| 3 | IB Stream Secondary (TDSB) | Public | IB prep, university pathways | Transit-friendly | Detached |
| 4 | Arts-Enriched Elementary | Public | Music & drama programs | Community centres, libraries | All listings |
| 5 | Catholic Elementary (TCDSB) | Catholic | Faith-based + athletics | Playgrounds, after-school care | Semis |
| 6 | French Secondary (TDSB) | Public | Immersion/AP track | Near GO/TTC | All listings |
| 7 | STEM/Tech Secondary | Public | Robotics & engineering | Newer builds, rec centres | Townhomes |
| 8 | Catholic Secondary (TCDSB) | Catholic | Athletics, leadership | Large sports fields | Detached |
| 9 | Gifted Centre Elementary | Public | Gifted pull-outs, enrichment | Mature trees, quiet pockets | All listings |
| 10 | Community-Centred Elementary | Public | Clubs, local partnerships | Walk-to parks & libraries | Semis |
Tip: ranking changes year to year. Always verify programs and boundaries on the board’s official sites before relying on third-party ratings.
How to choose the right Scarborough school
Step-by-step
- Define must-haves: French/IB/STEM/arts, sports, before/after care.
- Check boundaries and busing distances.
- Visit the school: ask about culture, clubs, support services.
- Match with neighbourhood: commute, parks, libraries, things to do.
- Shortlist streets; then shop homes within the catchment.
Home search shortcuts
- See our Schools in Scarborough guide.
- Compare home types: Semi vs Townhouse vs Detached.
- Browse current listings or ask our team for a school-zone shortlist.
- New to town? Start with Where is Scarborough? and Why live in Scarborough?
Where to live for great catchments (and why)
| Goal | Good Fit | Why | Fast Links |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walk to school + parks | Semi-detached on quiet streets | Yard + affordability + community vibe | Semis · Best areas for semis |
| Low exterior maintenance | Townhome near transit | Less upkeep, predictable costs | Townhomes |
| Max privacy + space | Detached close to amenities | Room to grow and host | Detached |
| Value vs downtown Toronto | Scarborough pockets near TTC/GO | Often more affordable than Toronto | All listings |
Food, activities, and routines
School life is more than classrooms. Explore restaurants and things to do to test how your daily rhythm will feel in each neighbourhood.
Planning a sale or move to get into a specific catchment? Start with a free home evaluation to map budget and timelines.
FAQs: Schools & Moving in Scarborough
Can I apply to a school outside my catchment?
Sometimes, via optional attendance or special programs, but placement is not guaranteed. Always confirm with the board directly and have a backup plan within your home boundary.
How do I balance commute vs. school quality?
Rank what matters most (programs, class size, commute). If two schools feel equal, choose the catchment with a daily routine you can sustain.
What home type works best for school-age families?
Semis often deliver a sweet spot of space, yard, and price. Compare with townhomes and detached based on maintenance and budget.
Where do I start if I’m new to Scarborough?
Read Where is Scarborough?, explore why families choose it, then browse current listings and our schools guide.
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