Toronto’s Public Art Schools: Nurturing the Next Generation of World-Class Artists

For young people who are passionate about the arts and eager to explore their talents in depth, Toronto offers a truly exceptional educational environment. In this city, world-renowned arts education is integrated into the public school system, and at the heart of it are specialized arts high schools. These institutions are not just regular schools with more art classes — they are designed to provide rigorous training and real-world experience for students who are seriously considering a career in the arts.

Among them, the Etobicoke School of the Arts (ESA) is perhaps the most recognized. This school has produced students who have excelled in admissions to prestigious art institutions across Canada, the U.S., and Europe. Particularly in visual arts, ESA students consistently submit outstanding portfolios and have won numerous international youth art awards. Film and media students produce short films that are screened at international youth film festivals, while dance and music majors frequently perform at venues beyond the local community. What truly sets ESA apart is its emphasis on developing an artist’s mindset — not just technical skill, but a way of thinking and creating like a true artist.

Another notable program is the Claude Watson Arts Program at Earl Haig Secondary School. This program is designed to identify and nurture artistic talent from an early stage, offering intensive education in dance, drama, visual arts, and music. Its strengths lie in its outstanding mentorship system and performance-driven approach. Students are regularly involved in producing and directing their own performances, and music students are part of ensembles and orchestras that provide practical training. Many graduates go on to attend leading arts institutions, including Juilliard, Parsons, and Berklee College of Music, as well as top Canadian universities.

The Wexford Collegiate School for the Arts takes a more hands-on and industry-focused approach. It offers two major streams — performing arts and visual arts — and is particularly strong in musical theatre and drama. Wexford students participate in youth performances across Toronto and its suburbs, taking on roles from acting and directing to costume design and stage management. Visual arts students often showcase their work in local galleries, and it’s common for graduates to leave with a near-professional level portfolio.

While lesser-known, Rosedale Heights School of the Arts has been steadily gaining recognition in the arts education community. This school fosters a more experimental and collaborative atmosphere, placing emphasis on creativity and teamwork. Instead of traditional auditions, Rosedale often uses project-based assessments, encouraging students to explore social themes through their art. The school is especially strong in visual and media arts, and interdisciplinary projects are a key part of its curriculum.

Admission to these schools requires dedicated preparation tailored to each discipline. Most require an audition, portfolio submission, or interview. For visual arts, students are typically expected to present 5 to 10 recent works, a sketchbook, and a creative personal statement. Music, dance, and drama applicants must usually prepare a short performance or designated pieces. It's recommended that students begin preparing in the latter half of Grade 8. In addition to portfolio development or audition practice, teacher recommendations and extracurricular artistic experiences can positively impact admission decisions.

Toronto’s specialized arts high schools offer much more than a standard curriculum with an arts focus. They open doors to professional arts training and help young artists begin to shape their identity and vision. For students who are serious about pursuing a future in the arts, these schools can serve as the ideal launchpad for their creative journey.