One of the top independent schools for boys in Canada, Crescent School spans 37 acres in midtown Toronto. Now in our second century, we provide rich and diverse experiences and opportunities for boys in Grades 3–12 to learn, grow and thrive. Character has always been at the centre of a Crescent education supporting our mission, Men of Character from Boys of Promise.
Since 1913, Crescent School’s focus has been on character development. It is part of our DNA and involves a deep, uncompromising commitment to three essential areas we believe bring out the best in boys: relational learning, mentoring and character-in-action. A school that truly understands what makes boys tick, Crescent is here to meet your son’s development needs every step of the way.
Finding the right school for your son is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. Thank you for considering Crescent School. We invite you to apply through our online application form. Learn more about us by attending an Open House or taking a virtual tour. We look forward to welcoming you to our campus.
A Crescent education is exciting, fulfilling and broad. Our curriculum is taught by highly motivated, supportive teachers who understand that establishing a relationship with your son unlocks the door to learning and engages him in his character development. Your son will be celebrated for both his work and his work ethic as we guide him academically and emotionally on his journey to becoming a Man of Character.
Character-in-Action programs are Crescent's co-curricular activities that provide boys with ample opportunities to develop character outside the classroom. Through clubs and teams in the arts, business, robotics and athletics, your son will discover new interests and build his leadership skills. And our outreach programs will allow him to gain compassion for others both in our community and abroad.
The generosity of our Crescent community provides vital support for our campus development, signature academic and co-curricular programs, and Student Financial Assistance. Contributions, no matter what their size, allow us to deliver the best possible education for our boys and help ensure that we continue to fulfill our mission: Men of Character from Boys of Promise.
Crescent School doesn’t slow down when regular classes are out. We offer a Summer Academic Program available to all high school students, as well as summer camps for children 4 to 13 years old. Our Successful Start program is a special academic prep program exclusively available to Crescent students.
Employment at Crescent School is an opportunity to build a rewarding career and belong to a dynamic community where all are respected for their contributions. Our employees share a commitment to excellence that has made us one of the top schools for boys in the world. An equal-opportunity employer, we offer competitive compensation and benefits and believe strongly in workplace accessibility.
Exploring Boundless Potential for Black History Month
“Boundless Potential: Paths to Identity, Belonging & Impact” was selected as this year’s Black History Month theme. Throughout February, Crescent students explored the stories, achievements and perspectives of Black communities through guest speakers, assemblies, Mentor Group discussions, and more. It was an opportunity to celebrate the many accomplishments and contributions of Black Canadians who have done so much to make Canada the culturally diverse, compassionate, and prosperous nation it is today.
Middle and Upper School students heard from Robert Small, a Toronto-based artist and the creator of the LEGACY Project posters. The posters—displayed in schools and businesses across the country—feature illustrations and stories of Black Canadians. In his talk, he alluded to the resistance and rebellion of African people who were being kidnapped into slavery, asking students to “think about the gaps in our history that are often not told.” He hopes to inspire young Black Canadians to see themselves in the trailblazers that appear in his poster series.
Kimberley Rampersad, Associate Artistic Director of the Shaw Festival, told Lower School students about how, in 2011, she was cast against type in a musical. She is “a Black and brown girl,” and the woman playing her sister was white. After an audience member commented loudly about her race, her scene partner showed support and helped Ms. Rampersad move past the uncomfortable moment. Rampersad urged students to understand that they can support people who are experiencing racism: “You are taught to be empathetic enough to say ‘Maybe I don’t experience [racism], but I care for you, and I’m showing up for you.’”
Crescent’s Black Student Alliance came together for a thought-provoking panel discussion at the end of February, with students sharing their personal experiences. “I come from a totally different world than ninety percent of the kids who go to this school,” said one student. “Just knowing you’re different has a big impact on how you carry yourself in order to be accepted.”
“For me, I’ve always been able to be myself [at school],” countered another. “I haven’t really had to change for anyone.” Others shared their ideas for what else could be done to make Crescent more inclusive for Black students, including having more Black mentors for students and having more Black history and culture woven into daily school life. Being surrounded by “good people” at Crescent helped one of the panel speakers develop his identity and be more authentic.
The Boundless Potential theme extended to a campaign on Crescent’s TV screens. It paid tribute to Black Crescent students and alumni who are having a measurable impact on the world and community around them.