For many families considering a move, schools are one of the most important factors to understand. Etobicoke south of the 401 is home to some of Toronto’s most respected public, Catholic, and private schools, and each neighbourhood offers its own unique strengths.
Local real estate expert David Cinelli, a long-time Etobicoke resident, provides a clear, neighbourhood-by-neighbourhood breakdown of the top-rated schools that consistently attract families to this part of the city.
Below is a comprehensive guide to the strongest school options across Etobicoke’s south-end communities.
Norseman JMS – Strong academics, arts programs, and supportive community involvement.
Étienne Brûlé JS – Warm school culture with dedicated teachers and well-rounded programming.
Our Lady of Sorrows – One of Toronto West’s most in-demand Catholic schools.
Etobicoke Collegiate Institute (ECI) – Known for its academic consistency, leadership programs, and long-standing reputation.
Humber Valley Village JMS – French Immersion, enriched curriculum, and strong parental engagement.
St. George’s – A respected Catholic school with strong student support.
Richview Collegiate Institute – A top-performing high school offering French Immersion and competitive academics.
Rosethorn Junior School – French Immersion and excellent early learning foundations.
Humber Valley Village JMS – Accessible to many Thorncrest families depending on boundaries.
St. Gregory – Strong academics and a well-established community culture.
Richview Collegiate Institute – Primary secondary option for the neighbourhood.
Lambton–Kingsway JMS – Among the highest-ranked schools in west Toronto; offers French Immersion.
Kingsway College School (KCS) – A leading private school for JK–8.
Our Lady of Sorrows – High-demand Catholic school serving a portion of The Kingsway.
ECI or Richview CI depending on boundary lines.
Valleyfield JS – Strong academic base and diverse programs.
Westway JS – Supportive staff and a community-forward culture.
Father Serra Catholic School – Well-regarded academics and community engagement.
Richview Collegiate Institute – A major draw for families in this area.
Sir Adam Beck JS – Excellent academic reputation.
Lanor JMS – Balanced programs with strong student support.
St. Ambrose – Long-standing school with loyal community backing.
Lakeshore Collegiate Institute (LCI) – Expanding academic, tech, and trades offerings.
James S. Bell Sports & Wellness Academy – Renowned athletic and wellness programs.
Long Branch JMS – A long-standing favourite among local families.
St. Josaphat – A close-knit Catholic school with strong values.
LCI – Main secondary school for Long Branch.
John English JMS – One of Etobicoke’s strongest schools; French Immersion available.
Second Street JMS – Supportive staff and community-driven programming.
St. Leo – One of the oldest and most respected Catholic schools in the community.
ECI or LCI depending on boundaries.
Kingsway College School (KCS) – Highly respected private JK–8 school.
Horizon Montessori – Strong early learning programs through a Montessori model.
Bishop Allen Academy – Catholic secondary school known for competitive academics (publicly funded but high-demand).
David Cinelli’s decades of experience helping families relocate to Etobicoke reveal several consistent themes:
High-performing public and Catholic schools
Strong French Immersion pathways
Safe, community-oriented neighbourhoods
Abundance of parks, ravines, and waterfront access
Convenient TTC, GO Train, and highway links
A welcoming mix of long-time residents and young families
For families prioritizing education and community, Etobicoke south of the 401 remains one of the most desirable destinations in the GTA.