Picking the right school for your child isn’t a task—it’s a journey. And in Calgary where the private school landscape is as varied as the skyline, it can feel like a maze.
But don’t just take my word for it. Ask the parents who have gone through it or the teachers who have dedicated their lives to shaping young minds. They’ll tell you choosing the right private school isn’t about finding the “best” one—it’s about finding the one that’s best for your child.
So, where do you start? Let’s break it down. Consider the concept of ‘one school’ that fosters a cohesive community, where your child can develop and thrive together with their peers throughout their educational experience.
1. Understanding Calgary’s Private School Landscape
1.1. What are Private Schools?
Private schools in Calgary are independent educational institutions that operate outside of the public school system. These schools are funded through tuition fees and private donations, allowing them to maintain a high level of autonomy and flexibility in their educational approach.
Calgary private schools offer a unique learning environment that caters to the diverse needs of students, providing a range of academic, artistic, and extracurricular programs.
1.2. Calgary’s Private School Landscape: A World of Possibilities
Calgary’s private school landscape is diverse and vibrant, with a wide range of schools to choose from. From traditional independent schools to specialized institutions, such as the Calgary Waldorf School, there is a private school in Calgary that suits every child’s needs and interests. Some popular options include:
Independent Schools: Institutions like Rundle College and Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School offer a well-rounded education with a variety of extracurricular activities. These schools focus on student success by providing a balanced curriculum that stimulates intelligence and encourages personal growth.
Specialized Schools: The Calgary Waldorf School, for example, emphasizes a holistic approach to education. It encourages creativity and practical activities, allowing children to explore their natural curiosities and develop as whole individuals.
International Schools: Schools like the Calgary French & International School provide a global perspective with a range of language programs. These schools prepare students for a globalized world by offering the International Baccalaureate diploma programme and other internationally recognized curricula.
Faith-Based Schools: Institutions such as the Calgary Islamic Private School offer a values-based education, fostering a strong sense of community and moral development among students.
When choosing a private school in Calgary, parents should consider factors such as academic reputation, extracurricular opportunities, class sizes, and teacher qualifications. By doing their research and finding the right fit for their child, parents can provide their child with a world-class education and a strong foundation for future success.
Graham Terryberry (@GTerryberry) says Calgary is a great city for families and especially so for private schools. With so many high-end schools to choose from, they offer a wide range of programs from academics to arts to athletics so parents can find the right fit for their child’s learning style.
Calgary’s private schools are tough academically but also focus on personal development so students can build confidence, leadership, and meaningful relationships in a supportive environment.
Along with strong academics, Calgary’s private schools offer many extracurricular opportunities so students get a full education. Smaller class sizes mean more one-on-one attention so students can excel academically and socially.
The sense of community and support in these schools makes them a great choice for families. As Terryberry says, Calgary’s private schools are where families can really grow.
Calgary is more than just a bustling city—it's a perfect place for families to grow and thrive. Here are the top reasons why families love living in Calgary:
— Graham Terryberry (@GTerryberry) November 1, 2024
Excellent Schools: Calgary boasts a variety of high-quality educational options, from public schools to private and ch… pic.twitter.com/HBfoUbsDHq
2. The Different Program Options
2.1. International Baccalaureate (IB): Globally Recognized Excellence
If you want a program with a global reputation IB might be the one. Known for its tough curriculum IB doesn’t just teach—it transforms students into critical thinkers with a global perspective.
Here’s what makes it special:
Global Recognition: Universities worldwide recognize the IB diploma, which gives students an edge in their applications.
Balanced Development: The program balances academics, creativity, and service to create well-rounded individuals.
Parents say IB is like preparing their kids for university a little earlier. And they’re not wrong—it’s tough but it pays off.
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is well known for its academic challenge and worldwide recognition. They offer the Diploma Program (DP) and Career-related Program (CP) in several private schools in Calgary. Both programs develop critical thinking and prepare students for top universities and careers around the world.
For parents looking at the top private schools in Calgary, the IB program stands out for inquiry-based learning, global citizenship, and personal development. Research how each school delivers the IB curriculum and the results of their students to ensure the program is right for your child.
Just 24 hours to go until DP and CP results! To celebrate we asked @Cornell student @AlohaKatieX, who received her IB diploma one year ago, to offer a few words of wisdom for the class of 2019. Good luck and congratulations to all IB students! #IBresults #ibalumni #IBDP #IBCP pic.twitter.com/ddnuVonuBQ
— International Baccalaureate (@iborganization) July 5, 2019
2.2. Calgary Waldorf School’s Rich Education: Creativity First
What if the focus wasn’t on textbooks but on imagination? Waldorf education does exactly that. The Calgary Waldorf School’s rich and challenging curriculum is designed to balance various educational aspects, including academic, artistic, and practical activities, stimulating intelligence and fostering creativity among students.
Highlights include:
Arts in Every Subject: Whether it’s math or history students learn through storytelling, drawing, and other creative methods.
Customized Learning: Lessons are designed to match a child’s natural development so they’re not just learning but understanding.
For parents who want a holistic, nontraditional approach Waldorf might be the way to go.
Marc Joiner (@con_nec_tor) shows us an amazing example of community involvement at the Calgary Waldorf School. To celebrate 100 years of Waldorf education they brought together parents, students, and teachers to create a beautiful tapestry that represents their collective commitment to education.
This is what community looks like in a school, especially in private education. Everyone—parents, teachers, and students—contributes to the school’s mission and culture.
When choosing a private school you need to consider not just the academic program but the community the school fosters. Schools like Calgary Waldorf encourage collaboration and a sense of belonging so students feel connected and valued as they move through their education.
This is what families want for their children to thrive in a place where education goes beyond the textbooks and into emotional and social development. For many parents, the chance to be part of such a close community is just as important as the curriculum itself.
Amazing what a community can do! This is a Calgary Waldorf School tapestry woven by random people from our community – parents, students, teachers – to celebrate 100 years of Waldorf education pic.twitter.com/HSn17CUyQY
— Marc Joiner (@con_nec_tor) October 11, 2019
2.3. Specialized Programs: For Unique Needs
Every child is different and some need programs that address specific learning needs. Calgary’s private schools offer:
Learning Support Programs: Strategies for students with challenges like dyslexia or ADHD to help them succeed on their terms.
Gifted Programs: Environments where advanced learners can stretch their abilities and explore more challenging material.
Another notable institution is the Third Academy, which provides specialized programs for elementary and junior high school students in Calgary.
These special programs make private schools a haven for students who might feel left behind or bored in traditional schools.
3. Academic Excellence and Personal Attention
3.1. Core and Enrichment Programs
Academics. Calgary’s private schools meet Alberta’s curriculum standards and often exceed them. Whether it’s AP courses, STEM classes, or arts tracks there’s a program to match every interest.
Think of this: some schools even partner with universities for dual credit courses so students can earn post-secondary credits before they graduate.
3.2. Smaller Class Sizes, Bigger Impact
Imagine this: your child in a class with small class sizes where the teacher knows not just their name but their strengths, weaknesses, and potential. That’s the advantage of smaller class sizes.
With fewer students per class, the teacher can give more personalized feedback and adapt their teaching to each learner’s needs. Something public schools with larger class sizes can’t provide.
4. The Application Process: What to Expect
Applying to private school is like applying to college. There’s paperwork, interviews and sometimes testing involved.
4.1. Get a Head Start
Deadlines sneak up fast. Many schools start their application process in the fall with deadlines in December or January. Don’t procrastinate and miss out on your top school.
4.2. The Application Package
Be prepared to submit:
- Report cards or transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement or essay (in some cases)
- Application fee (non-refundable)
4.3. Interviews and School Visits
Now the fun part: meeting the people who will be shaping your child’s future. Interviews are as much about the school getting to know your family as they are about you getting to know the school.
Pro tip? Visit the school on a regular day. See the students, meet the staff, and soak in the environment. You’ll know pretty quickly if it feels right.
5. Tuition and Financial Aid: Crunching the Numbers
Private school tuition in Calgary ranges from $5,000 to $30,000 per year. But don’t write it off as unaffordable just yet. Many schools offer financial aid or scholarships.
5.1. Scholarships and Aid Options
Some schools offer merit-based scholarships for academic or extracurricular excellence. Others offer need-based financial aid so families from all economic backgrounds can access high-quality education.
5.2. Other Expenses to Consider
Beyond tuition factor in:
- Uniforms
- Field trips
- Sports or arts program fees
- Technology expenses (laptops or software)
Get the full picture so you can make an informed decision and avoid surprises later.
6. Culture and Community
Private schools aren’t just about academics; they focus on the whole child, creating a supportive and engaging environment that addresses cognitive, emotional, and physical development.
6.1. Student Life and Extracurriculars
From robotics teams to theater productions, Calgary’s private schools offer a wide range of extracurricular activities that encourage creativity and foster innovative thinking. These aren’t just extras; they’re part of a well-rounded education, teaching teamwork, leadership, and perseverance.
6.2. Parent Involvement
Ever feel like more than just a tuition payer? Many private schools involve parents in their community through events, volunteer opportunities, and committees.
Dan Williams (@DanWilliamsAB) talks about Alberta’s investment in kids and youth through mental health innovation. The introduction of CASA Mental Health Classrooms in Calgary and other locations is a forward-thinking approach to mental health in education. These classrooms provide evidence-based support so students struggling with mental health challenges can thrive academically and personally.
For parents looking at private schools in Calgary, this is big news. It’s a growing recognition of the importance of mental health in education which many private schools are incorporating into their programs.
How a school approaches mental health is a key factor for families looking for a well-rounded and supportive environment for their kids. By choosing a school that values both academic excellence and mental wellness parents can ensure their child’s overall growth and success.
Alberta's partnership with @CASAfdn_yeg continues to deliver evidence-based mental health care to children and youth across the province. Next month, new CASA Mental Health Classrooms will open in Calgary, Daysland, and Rocky Mountain House.
— Dan Williams (@DanWilliamsAB) January 16, 2025
Read more… pic.twitter.com/k60tVD983V
7. Making the Final Choice
When it’s time to decide focus on what matters most to your family.
Ask yourself:
- Does the school’s philosophy match our values?
- Does the curriculum meet my child’s needs and interests?
- Does the environment feel welcoming and supportive?
And trust your instincts. No one knows your child better than you do.
The Takeaway
Calgary’s private schools offer a world of opportunities—but finding the right fit takes time, research, and a little soul-searching.
Because when you choose the right school, you’re not just investing in education. You’re investing in your child’s future. And isn’t that worth everything?
Last Updated on by Saket Kumar
