WillowWood School

  • Founded in 1980
  • 250 students
  • 10 reviews about this school
  • 4.7 / 5 by Reviews

WillowWood has been working for students for more than 40 years. While times change, WillowWood School's core values have not: all students have a right to learn with dignity; a warm and nurturing school can serve as a foundation for remarkable lives; it is the whole person who matters.

About WillowWood School

Welcome to WillowWood School

WillowWood School is a family-style school, where friendly and genuine interactions happen between students and teachers, issues are dealt with directly, and children feel seen and known. WillowWood students are inspired to engage with the world – whether that be through philanthropy, civic action, travel, consciousness-raising, or via visits from guests – as positive contributors to society. WillowWood School caters for children with learning differences, ADHD, and other learning challenges. All of WillowWood School courses in Lower, Middle, and Upper School (Grades 1-12) follow the Ontario Ministry of Education’s curriculum guidelines. WillowWood School is inspected regularly by the Ministry of Education and strictly adhere to their regulations and policies.

Principal: Fred Howe

WillowWood has an Arts and Sports program. There are two annual presentations: the Holiday Happening in December and the Musical in the Spring. WillowWood sports teams participate in the SSAF (Small Schools Athletic Federation) as the WillowWood Warriors.

Arts:

Film: WillowWood is well-ahead of the curve in its Film Studies program. Students begin studying Film as part of Language Arts in Middle School and can study it formally in Grade 11 and 12 Film Studies. 

Theatre: All levels of the school are committed to these productions. These productions also offer many opportunities to shine offstage – in costuming, makeup, backstage crew, advertising, and more.

Visual Arts: In recent years, the Visual Arts program has been bolstered and expanded via the digital arts – photography, film, web, and app design – and allowed for greater and greater integration into other school courses and areas.

Music: Jeff Ramage teaches the technical aspects of the Arts, teaching Sound Technology (a new course in 2020) and heading a team of students who set up and manage sound and lights in all sorts of settings.

Sports:

WillowWood School engender teamwork, goal-setting and healthy competition through SSAF teams including: Cross Country Running, Ultimate Frisbee, Flag Football, Basketball, Volleyball, Badminton, Curling, Bowling, Ice Hockey, Soccer, Ball Hockey, Softball, Track and Field, Dodgeball, Table Tennis and Golf.

International Programs:

The International Students in ESL receive much more than academic education: Rosie and Gus take care to introduce new students to Toronto as a city and Canada as a culture. They also integrate ESL students into the wider student body through holiday meals, trips together, clubs, and athletics.

Social and Emotional Support:

WillowWood teachers and staff care are invested in students' mental health and social development, and no one is left to fall through the cracks. Overseeing these efforts is WillowWood's on-staff Psychotherapist – Dena Tenenhouse – who advises staff, counsels students, and supports families in myriad ways. Dena also oversees the TOSS program and WillowWood's Responsible Actions Program.

Summer Grove Camps:

WillowWood has offered and runs International summer programs: Experience Ontario Camp mixed Summer Fun with English lessons and a broad assortment of cultural experiences. WillowWood SchoolGolf Camp combined the learning elements above with pro-coached golf skills daily.

What do students and parents think about WillowWood School?

Average rating: 4.7 / 5

10 reviews


Guest wrote on (2024-Feb-09) :

WillowWood is a school with a culture that empowers students to thrive in a tech-driven world. Its teachers are warm and supportive. They create individualized learning plans and deliver them in a safe, respectful, and inclusive community.

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Guest wrote on (2024-Feb-09) :

We love this school. The teachers and staff choose to be there and they truly love all the kids. We are grateful for our experiences. Every child is important there. Thank you Willowwood! Maria McTranter

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Guest wrote on (2025-Feb-05) :

I reached out to WillowWood about admission and was quite disappointed. My visit felt unproductive—after spending a morning on campus, I ended up spending two weeks chasing a reply from the admissions team. The communication was lacking, and I believe this part of the process needs significant improvement before I would recommend the school.

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Guest wrote on (2025-Feb-10) :

Our family’s journey with WillowWood has been nothing short of exceptional. From the moment we reached out, the inclusive and friendly atmosphere enveloped us. Every interaction, whether with admissions or teachers, was marked by warmth and care—a true testament to this nurturing environment. I highly recommend the school for families seeking a supportive community.

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Guest wrote on (2025-Mar-05) :

WillowWood truly sets itself apart with its innovative learning environment. The school’s unique Pod program gives every child the chance to learn at a pace that suits them best, ensuring that no one is left bored or overwhelmed. Nearly a decade in this community has left me with genuinely warm memories and a deep appreciation for their individualized approach.

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Guest wrote on (2025-Feb-25) :

I cannot praise WillowWood enough. My son’s first year in Grade 2 was a delightful journey—an environment where challenges were met with creative solutions and genuine care. With passionate educators and a supportive staff, WillowWood creates a safe space for every child to thrive, making it a school any parent would feel confident about.

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Guest wrote on (2025-Mar-10) :

WillowWood School is a true gem in Toronto. Their tailored curriculum not only meets students at their current level but also inspires them to reach new heights. The caring educators and efficient facilities have transformed my children into confident learners who are ready for the challenges of university. I only wish I had discovered this school sooner.

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Guest wrote on (2025-Mar-15) :

We enrolled our daughter in the WillowWood summer program in Grade 8, and the experience was transformative. Beyond the solid academics, the school offers exciting extracurricular activities—from festive plays to an organized trip to Japan—that allow every student to shine. The caring staff and engaging events made all the difference, and we are grateful for the lasting impact on our family.

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Guest wrote on (2025-Mar-20) :

Attending WillowWood since Grade 7 has been a life-changing experience for me. As someone with autism who struggled with social skills, I found not only academic excellence but also genuine care and acceptance here. The supportive teachers and inclusive community helped me gain the confidence to excel, and I proudly graduated as one of the valedictorians.

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Guest wrote on (2025-Mar-25) :

Our family has witnessed a remarkable transformation since our son joined WillowWood five years ago. Once struggling academically and socially, he now flourishes in a secure, nurturing environment that truly lives by its motto of "Learning with Dignity." The educators here are exceptionally patient and supportive, and we feel fortunate every day to be part of this inspiring school community.

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The WillowWood Admissions Process involves determining the fit between the student and the school.

Tuition From: 21,000CAD

Application Fee: 0CAD

Deadline: 2030-12-12

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