Olivia TaylorMy partner always says our future kids are destined for greatness—though he’s convinced they’ll be future Nobel Prize winners and Olympic champions all in one! Talk about high expectations.
As parents, we know the right education can turn those lofty dreams into reality, especially when they start eyeing careers that require more than just a knack for doodling in class.
But fear not! After countless coffee-fueled discussions, school tours that felt like speed dating, and enough brochures to wallpaper a room, we’ve rounded up the cream of the crop. So, let’s explore the top private schools in Ottawa and set them on the path to success!
| How much do private schools cost in Ottawa? For private schools in Ottawa, tuition fees can vary significantly, ranging from $4,600 to $76,380 per year, with an average tuition of around $19,066 per year. |
How We Chose The Best Private Schools in Ottawa
1. Heritage Academy
Address: 207 Bayswater Ave
Phone: +1 613-722-0133; [email protected]
Business hours: Monday to Friday: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
What sets Heritage Academy apart is the hands-on approach of the teachers and staff. They’re not just aware of the unique hurdles their students face, but they also work hard to create a supportive, tailored learning environment.
The parents we talked with often say this approach builds their kids’ confidence and helps them succeed, despite any learning differences.
We’ve also found the academy is an awesome fit for students with learning disabilities, especially those dealing with ADD/ADHD, anxiety, or attention-related challenges. Whether it’s dyslexia or other learning struggles, the school goes the extra mile to ensure no one falls through the cracks.
Another plus is the small class sizes. With fewer students, kids get more one-on-one attention, which helps them focus, especially those who might get lost in a bigger class.
Just a heads up, they don’t have junior kindergarten or preschool. But if you’re mainly looking for a school that gets and supports kids, Heritage Academy does a fantastic job!
Great for transitioning to university
“I highly recommend. I attended Heritage Academy from Grades 6 to 12 and just graduated from University. I am extremely grateful for the support I received from the Teachers and the Principal. Their support facilitated my transition to University, leading to my graduation with honors.”
-Tony S., Google Review
Helps achieve new academic heights
“We switched our son to Heritage a year ago and he is absolutely thriving. Our only regret is not doing it sooner! The teachers and staff are incredible, and they really helped my son achieve new academic heights. I also highly recommend the Jiu Jitsu program at the school.”
-Tammy Scott, Google Review
2. Académie de la Capitale
Address: 3448 Richmond Rd
Phone: +1 613-721-3872; [email protected]
Business hours: Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
We’ve heard great things about Académie de la Capitale (AcadeCap), especially when it comes to their commitment to a rigorous and forward-thinking education, particularly with their International Baccalaureate (IB) program.
On top of that, their SMILE Literacy Program focuses on kids who need extra help with reading and spelling. The one-on-one and small group teaching approach gives students that extra confidence boost they need to thrive in literacy.
And their summer camps are also a blast, packed with activities like robotics, coding, and STEAM projects. If your child loves tech and creativity, these camps are a great way to keep them engaged all summer.
That said, all these amazing programs and features come with a bit of an extra cost. Their tuition for JK to G12 is around $5,000 more than what you’d typically find at other private schools.
Still, if you’re after a well-rounded education that has an international focus along with plenty of academic and extracurricular options, it might just be worth the investment.
Provides customized teaching
“Helpful staff who provide customized teaching with small class size.”
-Steven Horbal, Google Review
Collaborative environment
“Excellent education in a warm, collaborative environment.”
-Ann Lim, Google Review
3. Joan Of Arc Academy
Address: 2221 Elmira Dr
Phone: +1 613-728-6364; [email protected]
Business hours: Monday to Friday: 8:35 AM – 3:45 PM
Joan of Arc Academy is a unique gem in Ottawa as the only bilingual, independent school for girls. What sets this school apart is the combination of small class sizes and a strong bilingual education from junior kindergarten all the way to Grade 8.
For parents who want their daughters to be fluent in English and French, this school is a perfect fit. With kindergarten classes taught entirely in French and a 50/50 split in grades after that, students excel in both languages by graduation.
From our surveys, teachers focus on more than academics; they create a warm, supportive atmosphere where each girl can thrive socially and academically.
But it’s quite a bummer that they only go up to Grade 8, so students will need to find another school for high school. This can be a hassle for families hoping for a JK-to-Grade 12 experience all in one place.
On a positive note, we noticed that students come out confident, creative, and well-rounded, all thanks to the care and attention they receive.
Remarkable French immersion program
“I’ve consistently heard outstanding reviews about this establishment, particularly regarding their remarkable French Immersion program. I can see why the ratings are so high here. The depth of knowledge and skills acquired by the children surpasses anything I’ve witnessed. I wholeheartedly recommend this school.”
-Logan Whiteman, Google Review
Wonderful and welcoming space
“Joan of Arc Academy was a wonderful, welcoming space for us when we joined them for grade six this year. From the very first visit to this day we have found warmth, dedication to academic enrichment including arts, as well as an emphasis on mutual respect in the school. Our daughter made friends on day one and has been a happy child throughout her time there. We look forward to the next three years, anticipating a thorough preparation for the transition to High School.”
-Kirstine Postma, Google Review
4. Westboro Academy
Address: 1000 Brookfield Rd E
Phone: +1 613-737-9543; [email protected]
Business hours: Monday to Friday: 8 AM – 4 PM
In the Raw Pet Food is all about healthy, natural, and raw options for your pets. They’ve got food, treats, supplements, accessories, and toys that focus on quality, so if you’re a pet parent who likes to know what’s going into your furry friend’s diet, you’ll probably appreciate their approach.
What really sets them apart is their personalized guidance. Besides great products, they offer expert advice and free consultations.
One downside is they don’t ship frozen raw food right now, which can be a letdown if you’re outside their area. They’re planning to start shipping dry orders to the Lower Mainland soon, but for frozen items, it’s pickup only for now.
Still, the staff are really patient and knowledgeable, often going the extra mile to help with your pet’s specific needs. It’s a huge plus if you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the pet food choices and need some expert direction.
Passionate and dedicated teachers
“What an amazing school and community! Our journey began in grade 2, and our only regret is not enrolling our son earlier. Beyond academics, my son is learning important life skills that you can’t compensate through additional tutoring. The school fosters an environment where critical thinking, curiosity, and creativity thrive. It’s not just about what you learn but how you learn, and the passionate, dedicated teachers serve as inspiring role models for the future generations they’re shaping.”
-Iulia M, Google Review
Wonderful experience
“My family has been ay Westboro Academy for the past 12 years and it has been a wonderful experience. The school’s commitment to bilingualism, the community feel and the quality of the staff are above and beyond other private schools in Ottawa.”
-Honorata Bittner, Google Review
5. Ashbury College
Address: 362 Mariposa Ave, Rockcliffe Park
Phone: +1 613-749-5954; [email protected]
Business hours: Monday to Friday: 8 AM – 4 PM
Ashbury College is an IB World School with a solid reputation for academic excellence, and they have a 100% university placement rate to show for it.
The student body at Ashbury is diverse, with kids from over 60 countries. This enriches the whole learning experience, giving students the chance to learn about different cultures and perspectives—a great way to broaden their horizons.
We also think their extracurriculars are a big highlight, with over 70 activities available, from sports to arts to leadership clubs. This gives students a chance to develop various skills and make meaningful connections outside the classroom.
However, Ashbury’s tuition fees can be pretty hefty. At $36,250 for day students and a staggering $80,670 for boarding students, it’s one of the pricier private schools in Ottawa, which might make it tough for some families to swing.
On the bright side, the school has a great scholarship program, giving out over $3 million each year to students heading off to university.
Committed and engaged teachers
As a parent of three students at this school, I can attest that the educational experience is second to none. Committed and engaged teachers and staff, rigorous academics and multiple opportunities for sports, arts and a good student life balance mean that all children thrive. I would highly recommend Ashbury College.”
-Tracy Rait-Parkes, Google Review
Fantastic educational institution
“Fantastic educational institution and this is an educational institution not an alternative learning enterprise. Your children will be supported but will also be pushed. They are expected to excel and there are all sorts of supports to help them succeed but slackers are not entertained. Our children’s education didn’t skip a beat during COVID. Staff are exceptional and facilities are cutting edge. Probably the only thing I have not been impressed with has been the bus service to and from school as it is insanely expensive, it is good but you might as well buy your kids a car.”
-James Dolan, Google Review
