Rosedale Heights School Of The Arts

"Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up" -Pablo Picasso, Rosedale Heights School Of The Arts is the only arts school in the Toronto District School Board that does not use auditions for acceptance.

About Rosedale Heights School Of The Arts

Located in Toronto’s vibrant arts community, this dynamic institution offers a unique blend of academic rigor and creative expression tailored for students passionate about the arts. With specialized facilities including a 670-seat auditorium, multiple rehearsal and dance studios, drama rooms, a dark room, vocal suites, and diverse visual arts studios, students are immersed in an inspiring environment designed to nurture talent across all artistic disciplines.

🎨 Specialized Arts Programs

Students can engage in an extensive range of artistic courses, from dance, dramatic arts, and technical theatre to instrumental music, vocals, visual arts, and media arts. The school fosters interdisciplinary exploration, encouraging students to develop skills in multiple art forms rather than limiting their focus to a single major. Senior students have the opportunity to participate in advanced drama productions, including technical theatre where they learn backstage operations such as lighting, sound, stage management, and set design. In addition, an in-school Fringe Festival showcases original student-written short plays, providing hands-on experience in directing, producing, and performing.

📚 Academic Excellence and French Program

Academics are approached with equal dedication, emphasizing both foundational and enriched curricula. The French language program is particularly robust, offering applied, academic, and enriched levels beginning in grade 9, progressing to university-level studies in grades 11 and 12. Classrooms integrate advanced technology such as Smartboards to enhance interactive learning, all while promoting a communicative and enjoyable method for mastering French.

🏫 History & Community Impact

Originally known as Castle Frank, the school was reimagined into a specialized arts hub under visionary leadership, described as a non-semester school prioritizing creative development. Recognition from national publications has positioned it among Canada’s top arts-focused high schools. The school draws students from across the Greater Toronto Area, welcoming diverse talents without relying on auditions—making arts education accessible to all eager learners.

🌟 Values and Student Development

  • Commitment to inclusiveness and excellence across all programs
  • Celebration of diversity and individuality among students
  • Safe, supportive, and respectful learning environment
  • Dedicated, skilled teaching staff invested in student success

Beyond art techniques, the school prioritizes emotional growth and well-being. Artistic engagement helps students explore self-awareness, manage stress, boost confidence, and enhance overall mental health by stimulating creativity and reducing anxiety. This holistic approach cultivates a nurturing culture where students flourish both creatively and personally.

🎭 Notable Alumni

Graduates include acclaimed artist Petra Collins and members of the renowned band The Beaches—Jordan Miller, Kylie Miller, Eliza Enman-McDaniel, and Leandra Earl—as well as actress Kristy Yang, exemplifying the school’s impact on Canada's cultural landscape.

✨ Conclusion

By harmonizing rigorous academics with rich artistic opportunities and a supportive atmosphere, this school stands out as a beacon for aspiring young artists and scholars. It empowers each student to unlock their creative potential while building essential skills for success across all areas of life and learning.

More information

Located in Toronto’s vibrant arts community, this dynamic institution offers a unique blend of academic rigor and creative expression tailored for students passionate about the arts. With specialized facilities including a 670-seat auditorium, multiple rehearsal and dance studios, drama rooms, a dark room, vocal suites, and diverse visual arts studios, students are immersed in an inspiring environment designed to nurture talent across all artistic disciplines.

🎨 Specialized Arts Programs

Students can engage in an extensive range of artistic courses, from dance, dramatic arts, and technical theatre to instrumental music, vocals, visual arts, and media arts. The school fosters interdisciplinary exploration, encouraging students to develop skills in multiple art forms rather than limiting their focus to a single major. Senior students have the opportunity to participate in advanced drama productions, including technical theatre where they learn backstage operations such as lighting, sound, stage management, and set design. In addition, an in-school Fringe Festival showcases original student-written short plays, providing hands-on experience in directing, producing, and performing.

📚 Academic Excellence and French Program

Academics are approached with equal dedication, emphasizing both foundational and enriched curricula. The French language program is particularly robust, offering applied, academic, and enriched levels beginning in grade 9, progressing to university-level studies in grades 11 and 12. Classrooms integrate advanced technology such as Smartboards to enhance interactive learning, all while promoting a communicative and enjoyable method for mastering French.

🏫 History & Community Impact

Originally known as Castle Frank, the school was reimagined into a specialized arts hub under visionary leadership, described as a non-semester school prioritizing creative development. Recognition from national publications has positioned it among Canada’s top arts-focused high schools. The school draws students from across the Greater Toronto Area, welcoming diverse talents without relying on auditions—making arts education accessible to all eager learners.

🌟 Values and Student Development

  • Commitment to inclusiveness and excellence across all programs
  • Celebration of diversity and individuality among students
  • Safe, supportive, and respectful learning environment
  • Dedicated, skilled teaching staff invested in student success

Beyond art techniques, the school prioritizes emotional growth and well-being. Artistic engagement helps students explore self-awareness, manage stress, boost confidence, and enhance overall mental health by stimulating creativity and reducing anxiety. This holistic approach cultivates a nurturing culture where students flourish both creatively and personally.

🎭 Notable Alumni

Graduates include acclaimed artist Petra Collins and members of the renowned band The Beaches—Jordan Miller, Kylie Miller, Eliza Enman-McDaniel, and Leandra Earl—as well as actress Kristy Yang, exemplifying the school’s impact on Canada's cultural landscape.

✨ Conclusion

By harmonizing rigorous academics with rich artistic opportunities and a supportive atmosphere, this school stands out as a beacon for aspiring young artists and scholars. It empowers each student to unlock their creative potential while building essential skills for success across all areas of life and learning.

More information

Located in Toronto’s vibrant arts community, this dynamic institution offers a unique blend of academic rigor and creative expression tailored for students passionate about the arts. With specialized facilities including a 670-seat auditorium, multiple rehearsal and dance studios, drama rooms, a dark room, vocal suites, and diverse visual arts studios, students are immersed in an inspiring environment designed to nurture talent across all artistic disciplines.

🎨 Specialized Arts Programs

Students can engage in an extensive range of artistic courses, from dance, dramatic arts, and technical theatre to instrumental music, vocals, visual arts, and media arts. The school fosters interdisciplinary exploration, encouraging students to develop skills in multiple art forms rather than limiting their focus to a single major. Senior students have the opportunity to participate in advanced drama productions, including technical theatre where they learn backstage operations such as lighting, sound, stage management, and set design. In addition, an in-school Fringe Festival showcases original student-written short plays, providing hands-on experience in directing, producing, and performing.

📚 Academic Excellence and French Program

Academics are approached with equal dedication, emphasizing both foundational and enriched curricula. The French language program is particularly robust, offering applied, academic, and enriched levels beginning in grade 9, progressing to university-level studies in grades 11 and 12. Classrooms integrate advanced technology such as Smartboards to enhance interactive learning, all while promoting a communicative and enjoyable method for mastering French.

🏫 History & Community Impact

Originally known as Castle Frank, the school was reimagined into a specialized arts hub under visionary leadership, described as a non-semester school prioritizing creative development. Recognition from national publications has positioned it among Canada’s top arts-focused high schools. The school draws students from across the Greater Toronto Area, welcoming diverse talents without relying on auditions—making arts education accessible to all eager learners.

🌟 Values and Student Development

  • Commitment to inclusiveness and excellence across all programs
  • Celebration of diversity and individuality among students
  • Safe, supportive, and respectful learning environment
  • Dedicated, skilled teaching staff invested in student success

Beyond art techniques, the school prioritizes emotional growth and well-being. Artistic engagement helps students explore self-awareness, manage stress, boost confidence, and enhance overall mental health by stimulating creativity and reducing anxiety. This holistic approach cultivates a nurturing culture where students flourish both creatively and personally.

🎭 Notable Alumni

Graduates include acclaimed artist Petra Collins and members of the renowned band The Beaches—Jordan Miller, Kylie Miller, Eliza Enman-McDaniel, and Leandra Earl—as well as actress Kristy Yang, exemplifying the school’s impact on Canada's cultural landscape.

✨ Conclusion

By harmonizing rigorous academics with rich artistic opportunities and a supportive atmosphere, this school stands out as a beacon for aspiring young artists and scholars. It empowers each student to unlock their creative potential while building essential skills for success across all areas of life and learning.


What do students and parents think about Rosedale Heights School Of The Arts?

Average rating: 3.2 / 5

15 reviews


Guest wrote on (2023-Oct-24) :

The music theatre and dance shows at this school are top-notch and really fun. I've been blown away by their choreographies. Big shoutout to the instructors!

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Guest wrote on (2023-Oct-24) :

Here's a rewritten version of the text: Kids love playing on this stage with its easy access, good stage setup, comfy seats, and it's a great spot for school activities.

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Guest wrote on (2025-Mar-15) :

Rosedale Heights truly stands out! Both of my children attended and excelled here, thanks to an extraordinary arts curriculum that seamlessly blends rigorous academics with creative excellence. Each performance—be it musical theatre, dance, or recitals—showcases the dedication of its students, shaping well-rounded, confident individuals.

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Guest wrote on (2025-Mar-10) :

I attended Rosedale Heights during my first year of high school but decided to transfer afterward. While I was impressed by standout educators—especially Mr. Lin in science and an exceptional English teacher—the overall teaching quality was inconsistent. The principal’s humor made it easy to forge friendships, yet a dismissive remark from one music teacher during a recital left me disappointed. The school’s small, drama-prone environment ultimately did not meet my expectations.

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Guest wrote on (2025-Apr-05) :

During my first visit to Rosedale Heights, I was greeted by an incredibly helpful representative named Victoria. She took the time to thoroughly explain the school’s programs without any pressure, offering genuine insights into both the artistic and academic aspects. Her friendly professionalism set a very positive tone for the school community.

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Guest wrote on (2025-Mar-28) :

At a recent school event, refreshments were promised, yet every student only received a single treat. The moderator’s tone felt unwelcoming and passive-aggressive, and despite mentioning a second round, no additional treats were provided. It was a disappointing experience that left much to be desired.

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Guest wrote on (2025-Mar-22) :

I have serious reservations about the management at Rosedale Heights. I witnessed several instances where discriminatory behavior was not adequately addressed—most notably, an incident in the drama department where a teacher made highly inappropriate, racially charged remarks. Such negligence leaves students feeling unsafe, and I would recommend exploring other options for a truly supportive arts program.

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Guest wrote on (2025-Apr-02) :

In my honest opinion, Rosedale Heights may not be the best choice for students from less privileged backgrounds. Although the arts programs are robust, the overall community can feel exclusive and overly negative. Combined with issues like drug misuse and a high-pressure environment, the experience is less than ideal.

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Guest wrote on (2025-Mar-18) :

Rosedale Heights does have some dedicated arts teachers and a fine auditorium, yet the overall environment feels disheartening. The school appears to neglect its sports and academic facilities—there are hardly any proper outdoor fields or athletic resources. Students tend to congregate idly during breaks, which only adds to a prevailing sense of despondency.

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Guest wrote on (2025-Mar-12) :

My time at the school was disappointing due to a toxic atmosphere. I observed that some students, particularly those from privileged backgrounds, bullied others without any effective intervention. Furthermore, teachers showed little initiative in stopping drug transactions just outside the school’s perimeter. It was an environment that left a lot to be desired.

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Guest wrote on (2025-Mar-25) :

I was fortunate to be among the pioneer students in the performing arts program at Rosedale Heights. The school impressed me with its supportive staff and warm, creative community. I especially cherish the exceptional dance instruction provided by Mrs. Marsh, which has left enduring, treasured memories.

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Guest wrote on (2025-Apr-10) :

The musical theatre and dance shows at Rosedale Heights are exceptionally polished and engaging. The performances are marked by innovative choreography and high production values, and I applaud the instructors for their creative vision and commitment to excellence.

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Guest wrote on (2025-Apr-08) :

I believe the school’s focus is overly skewed toward the arts, which restricts the range of programs available to students. Although the art curriculum is well-developed, this narrow emphasis leaves little room for broader academic exploration.

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Guest wrote on (2025-Apr-05) :

I witnessed a disturbing incident in one of the bathrooms where two female students appeared to misuse substances—snorting what looked like molly and taking an LSD tab. Such behavior, occurring in a place meant for learning, raises serious concerns about student supervision.

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Guest wrote on (2025-Apr-02) :

I’ve embraced a quirky tradition at Rosedale Heights by performing a series of rituals to honor what I humorously call the "coffee god." This eccentric campus ritual has become a fun and memorable part of my experience here, and I plan to continue it in the future—earning a unique 10/10 in its own right.

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