Cardinal Carter Academy for the Arts stands as Toronto’s flagship Catholic arts high school, offering an immersive creative education since 1990. With 600 students and an exceptional 18:1 student-teacher ratio, the school provides intensive training in music, drama, dance, and visual arts within its $8 million professional-grade facilities. Students devote 25% of their schedule to arts disciplines, preparing for careers through masterclasses with organizations like the National Ballet and Toronto Symphony Orchestra.
The school’s competitive audition process ensures a vibrant community of passionate young artists. Beyond arts training, Cardinal Carter maintains strong academics, with graduates regularly accepted to top-tier arts programs worldwide. Unique wellbeing initiatives like performance psychology workshops support students’ holistic development.
Annual traditions like the “Winter Lights” concert series showcase student talent while building community. As a tuition-free Catholic school (with nominal arts fees), Cardinal Carter demonstrates commitment to accessibility through financial aid and inclusive programming. Its distinguished alumni network across entertainment industries speaks to the program’s success in nurturing artistic excellence. For young performers and creators seeking rigorous training in a faith-based environment, Cardinal Carter offers an unmatched secondary school experience that transforms passion into profession.
Basic Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| School Name | Cardinal Carter Academy for the Arts |
| Year Founded | 1990 |
| School Type | Catholic (TCDSB) |
| Gender | Co-educational |
| Grade Levels Offered | 9-12 |
| Enrollment | ~600 students |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 18:1 |
Unique Information About the School
“As one of Canada’s premier Catholic arts high schools, Cardinal Carter Academy offers an unparalleled arts immersion program where students spend 25% of their school day in specialized arts training. The school’s $8 million Arts Wing features professional-grade performance spaces that rival many university facilities, making it a training ground for future performers and creators.”
Facilities
- Academic Facilities: Smart classrooms, writing labs, STEM rooms
- Arts Facilities:
- 350-seat proscenium theater with fly system
- 12 music practice rooms with grand pianos
- Dance studios with sprung floors
- Digital recording studio
- Visual arts gallery
- Sports Facilities: Gymnasium, fitness center
- Special Facilities: Costume design workshop, scene shop
Programs & Curriculum
- Curriculum Type: OSSD with Arts Concentration
- Language of Instruction: English
- Specialty Programs:
- Music (Instrumental/Vocal)
- Drama (Acting/Production)
- Dance (Ballet/Contemporary)
- Visual Arts (Digital/Traditional)
- University Pathways: 100% acceptance to arts programs; top placements at Juilliard, Sheridan, OCAD
- Extracurriculars:
- Chamber choir
- Jazz ensemble
- Theater productions
- Gallery exhibitions
Student Support & Wellbeing
- Arts-specific guidance counseling
- Performance anxiety workshops
- Physiotherapy for dance students
- Inclusive “Create Space” mental health program
Admissions & Tuition
- Admissions: Audition-based (January deadlines)
- Process:
- Music: Live performance + theory test
- Drama: Monologue + improv
- Dance: Technique demonstration
- Visual Arts: Portfolio review
- Tuition: Free (Catholic school); $300 arts program fee
Community & Alumni
- Notable Alumni:
- 3 Stratford Festival actors
- Juno-winning jazz musician
- Netflix production designer
- Parent Involvement: Arts booster club
- Traditions:
- “Winter Lights” concert series
- Annual student-directed play
Recognition & Compliance
- National Gold Medal – MusicFest Canada (2023)
- TCDSB Center of Excellence for Arts Education
- Fully accredited by Ontario Ministry of Education
Accessibility & Inclusion
- Wheelchair-accessible theater
- Sensory-friendly performances
- Financial aid for arts program fees