Toronto International Program High Schools (TISP)

Schools are grouped into three categories based on ESL support level and academic structure for international students. This page focuses on each school’s approach and suitability. Location details are available on the map page.

Note: This page is for an initial review. We will confirm the most current program details together before applying.

Group 1 – Strong ESL Support

First-year integration focused

School Area Key highlights
Central Toronto Academy Downtown
  • Intensive ESL support (integration-focused entry)
  • Newcomer/mentoring approach (school adjustment)
  • Balance of core courses + language development in the first year
Central Technical School Downtown
  • Extended ESL options (more intensive language support)
  • Flexible course planning with Night School / Summer School
  • Step-by-step model to move toward academic goals
Dr. Norman Bethune CI Scarborough
  • Language support with ESL mentors
  • NOW (Newcomer Orientation Week): support for the first weeks of adjustment
  • Strengthen core courses in Grades 9–10
L’Amoreaux CI Scarborough
  • Balance of Extended ESL and academic focus
  • Goal-based course planning (step-by-step progression)
  • Regular follow-up approach during the adjustment period
Stephen Leacock CI Scarborough
  • ESL-sensitive course approach (supportive for language learners)
  • Adjustment support and in-school guidance
  • Core courses and language development progress in parallel

Group 2 – ESL + Academic Balance

University goal

School Area Key highlights
Albert Campbell CI Scarborough
  • ESL + academic balance (strong base for university goals)
  • Plan to move into AP/advanced courses (for students who are ready)
  • Social integration through clubs/activities
A. Y. Jackson SS North York
  • ESL + academic balance
  • Planning focused on preparing for AP/advanced courses
  • A good fit for students progressing in math/science pathways
Bloor CI Downtown
  • Central-location advantage (easy transportation)
  • Gradual transition to AP/advanced courses
  • Grades and course-selection plan for university goals
Don Mills CI North York
  • ESL + academic balance
  • Motivation through arts/technology-themed course choices
  • A good fit for students building a portfolio or following interest areas
Emery CI North York
  • ESL + academic balance
  • A good fit for students interested in technology/robotics
  • Step-by-step path: language → core courses → advanced courses
Etobicoke CI Etobicoke
  • ESL + academic balance
  • Build confidence through leadership and school involvement
  • Planning focused on strengthening GPA/grades
George Harvey CI West Toronto
  • ESL + academic balance
  • Approach to prepare for university/college transition
  • Aligning course choices with student goals
Georges Vanier SS North York
  • ESL + academic balance
  • Course variety with a technology and arts focus
  • Build a pathway based on interests
Jarvis CI Downtown
  • Central location + wide course selection
  • Flexibility when moving from ESL to academic courses
  • Step-by-step preparation for university applications
John Polanyi CI Midtown
  • ESL + academic balance
  • A good fit for students interested in science/technology
  • Academic motivation supported through clubs and projects
Kipling CI Etobicoke
  • ESL + academic balance
  • A good fit for students interested in technology/ICT
  • Transition to advanced course planning in Grades 11–12
Martingrove CI Etobicoke
  • ESL + academic balance
  • Progress supported by arts/technology motivation
  • University goal supported by grades + course choices
Newtonbrook SS North York
  • ESL + academic balance
  • Students who want a balance of sports, arts, and academics
  • An advantage in building a social network during adjustment
West Humber CI Etobicoke
  • ESL + academic balance
  • Approach focused on AP/advanced course readiness
  • Flexibility to accelerate or make up credits via Summer School

Group 3 – Special Programs / Focus Areas

Based on interests

School Area Key highlights
Monarch Park CI East York
  • Special-program-focused pathway (for students with clear goals)
  • A good fit for students with an IB-style approach
  • Requires academic discipline and strong time management
Victoria Park CI North York
  • Special-program-focused pathway
  • A good fit for students with an IB-style approach
  • A good fit for students interested in science/health/biotech
Woburn CI Scarborough
  • Robotics/technology-focused student profile
  • Motivation through a project-based club culture
  • A good fit for students aiming for engineering
Western Technical-CS West Toronto
  • For students interested in technical/applied courses
  • A good fit for students curious about robotics/engineering
  • Progress through goal-based course selection
Birchmount Park CI Scarborough
  • Athletics-focused student profile (balance is important)
  • Academic + athletics planning (time management)
  • Coaching/mentoring can help with school adjustment
Northview Heights SS North York
  • For students seeking a balance of athletics + academics + arts/technology
  • Highly motivated students, even while developing ESL
  • Choosing the right program for the goal matters
Silverthorn CI Etobicoke
  • Athletics-focused pathway
  • If there is an academic goal, course selection is critical
  • Disciplined tracking for students with exam/standardized test plans
Sir John A. Macdonald CI Scarborough
  • For students interested in leadership/peer leadership
  • Great for students with strong social integration and communication
  • Language growth alongside presentation/communication skills
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