For families considering top-tier boarding schools in Ontario or exceptional private schools near me, Trinity College School (TCS) in Port Hope, Ontario stands as a premier choice. As one of Canada’s oldest and most respected independent boarding schools, TCS offers a co-educational environment that balances tradition with innovative education. Located in the charming community of Port Hope, the school provides a safe, immersive setting for both day and boarding students from across Canada and around the world.
Did You Know??
Founded in 1865, Trinity College School is one of the oldest independent schools in Canada, with a history of academic excellence and community leadership that spans over 150 years.
General Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Private, independent, co-educational day & boarding school |
| Motto | “Bene Agere Ac Laetari” (To Do Well and Be Happy) |
| Established | 1865 |
| Grades | 5–12 (Boarding available for grades 9–12) |
| Gender | Co-educational |
| Enrolment (2024) | ~570 students |
| Boarding Students | ~285 (50% of student body) |
| Campus Size | 100 acres |
| Campus Type | Rural, in historic Port Hope, Ontario |
| School Colors | Blue, Black and White |
| Affiliation | CAIS, Round Square |
| Acceptance Rate | Approximately 30-40%. TCS maintains selective admissions, seeking students who demonstrate academic potential, character, and a willingness to contribute to community life. |
Did You Know?
TCS maintains a beekeeping program that produces its own honey on campus.
Academics and Faculty
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Saturday Classes | Yes (Academic and co-curricular programs) |
| Classroom Dress Code | Formal (School Uniform required) |
| Average Class Size | 15-18 students |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 7:1 |
| # of AP / Advanced Courses Offered | 19 AP courses |
| ESL Courses Offered | Yes (English Language Support program) |
| % Faculty with Advanced Degree | 65% |
| Summer Program Offered | Yes |
| Summer Program Details | TCS Summer Programs offer academic courses, language programs, and camps in athletics and arts for students aged 10-16. |
| Diploma Offered | Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) |
Facilities
The TCS campus in Port Hope features impressive facilities that support its comprehensive academic and co-curricular programs:
- Academic Buildings: Including the Dick & Joan Love Alumni Academic Centre
- Science & Technology: 12 modern laboratories and innovation spaces
- Athletic Facilities: The 60,000 sq. ft. G. Wayne Groot Sports Complex, multiple fields, tennis courts, and squash courts
- Arts Facilities: The 330-seat Levinson Hall, music rooms, and art studios
- Residences: 7 boarding houses that create close-knit living communities
- Other: Memorial Chapel, fully-equipped library, and extensive outdoor spaces
Leadership & Administration
| Role | Name |
|---|---|
| Headmaster | Mr. Stuart Grainger |
| Assistant Headmaster | Mr. David Darby |
| Director of Admissions | Mrs. Jennifer M. Mifsud |
Address Information
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Address | 55 Deblaquire Street North |
| Locality | Port Hope, Ontario, Canada |
| Postal Code | L1A 4K7 |
Contact Information
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Phone | +1 (905) 885-3209 |
| Fax | +1 (905) 885-9647 |
| admissions@tcs.on.ca | |
| Website | www.tcs.on.ca |
Summary of Reviews (Pros & Cons)
This table synthesizes common themes from student and parent reviews.
Positive Reviews (Strengths)
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Balanced Excellence | Strong academic programs with 19 AP courses combined with outstanding arts and athletic opportunities. |
| Supportive Community | The residential life program creates a family-like atmosphere where students form lasting bonds. |
| Global Perspective | With students from over 40 countries, TCS offers truly international exposure and understanding. |
| Leadership Development | Extensive co-curricular programs and the Round Square membership foster strong leadership skills. |
| Beautiful Campus | The 100-acre campus in Port Hope provides an ideal environment for learning and personal growth. |
Negative Reviews (Common Criticisms)
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| High Tuition Costs | Like many top boarding schools in Canada, TCS requires a substantial financial commitment from families. |
| Academic Pressure | The rigorous academic environment and high expectations can be challenging for some students. |
| Rural Location | While Port Hope offers a safe environment, some students find the small-town setting limiting compared to urban schools. |
| Competitive Admissions | The selective TCS acceptance rate means many qualified applicants may not receive offers. |
| Traditional Culture | Some students note the school’s long traditions can feel restrictive compared to more progressive institutions. |