"Nestled beside the Credit River ecosystem and the University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM), The Erindale Academy redefines Grades 7–12 as a transformative journey of academic excellence, inquiry, and real-world problem-solving. Students access UTM facilities, connect with professors and grad students, and gain early exposure to university-level learning. At Erindale, students don’t just learn—they question, create, and lead with confidence in a changing world."
Inquiry-Based Learning
Project-Based Innovation
STEM, AI & Robotics
Whole-Child Development
Nature-Inspired Exploration
Leadership & Community Engagement
UTM Academic Partnership
AP courses
On-site counselling service and emotion support
safe environment
2. What do you do differently and uniquely well?
"The Erindale Academy: A Problem-Based, Goal-Oriented Approach to Learning
At The Erindale Academy, we don’t start with textbooks — we start with questions. Our students...(more)
"The Erindale Academy: A Problem-Based, Goal-Oriented Approach to Learning
At The Erindale Academy, we don’t start with textbooks — we start with questions. Our students engage in a problem-based learning model where real-world challenges drive inquiry, innovation, and academic exploration. Whether designing AI-powered solutions, building entrepreneurial projects, or conducting field research, students learn by doing. Every unit is anchored in a meaningful problem, and every learning journey is personalized toward clearly defined goals. This approach empowers students to think critically, work collaboratively, and connect knowledge across disciplines. More than just preparing for tests, our students prepare for life. With strong mentorship and university-focused planning, we help students transform curiosity into action and potential into achievement. At Erindale, education is not a one-size-fits-all path — it’s a dynamic journey that begins with purpose and ends with real outcomes."
3. What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?
"At The Erindale Academy, we are committed to a problem-based, goal-driven learning model. This means we’ve made deliberate tradeoffs—choosing personalized, real-world learning...(more)
"At The Erindale Academy, we are committed to a problem-based, goal-driven learning model. This means we’ve made deliberate tradeoffs—choosing personalized, real-world learning over standardized, test-focused instruction. Rather than emphasizing rote memorization or uniform results, we focus on critical thinking, collaboration, and meaningful project work. Our classrooms may feel less traditional, but they are alive with inquiry, creativity, and student voice.
We’ve also shifted from the teacher-centered model to a mentorship approach, where educators guide students in discovering and solving real-world problems. These choices mean more time for innovation, and less for routine drills or rigid control. While this may not fit every family’s expectations, we believe this is what prepares students not just for university—but for life. Our tradeoffs reflect our priorities: purpose, independence, and long-term growth."
4. What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?
"The Erindale Academy began in 1971 as Froebel School, named after Friedrich Froebel, who believed in educating the whole child—academically, socially, and personally. In 2016,...(more)
"The Erindale Academy began in 1971 as Froebel School, named after Friedrich Froebel, who believed in educating the whole child—academically, socially, and personally. In 2016, the school was acquired by Toronto Central Academy and renamed The Erindale Academy. The new name reflects both the surrounding Erindale community and the historic name of the University of Toronto Mississauga—once known as Erindale College.
Located beside UTM and the Credit River, TEA carries Froebel’s values into a modern, project-based curriculum that integrates AI, business, and global leadership. Under the guidance of George Vanderkuur and Paul Pu, it has grown into a purpose-driven school and home of the Global Youth Challenge, which has reached thousands worldwide.
Today, The Erindale Academy serves Grades 7–12, blending heritage and innovation to prepare students for success in university—and in life."
5. What type of student is a good fit for your school?
"What type of student is a good fit for your school?
The Erindale Academy is an ideal fit for students who are curious, purpose-driven, and eager to engage with the real world....(more)
"What type of student is a good fit for your school?
The Erindale Academy is an ideal fit for students who are curious, purpose-driven, and eager to engage with the real world. Our students aren’t just looking to earn high marks—they want to understand deeply, think critically, and apply their learning to solve meaningful problems.
We work best with students who thrive in a small, supportive environment where they are known, challenged, and encouraged to lead. Whether a student is academically advanced, entrepreneurial, STEM-oriented, globally minded, or simply searching for a more personalized path, they will find a place—and a purpose—at Erindale.
Students who succeed here are not afraid to ask questions, take initiative, and explore beyond the textbook. They’re motivated to grow not only academically, but also as thinkers, collaborators, and citizens of the future."
6. Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?
"The Erindale Academy is not the best fit for every student. Our school emphasizes problem-based, interdisciplinary learning that fosters critical thinking, creativity, and...(more)
"The Erindale Academy is not the best fit for every student. Our school emphasizes problem-based, interdisciplinary learning that fosters critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. Families seeking a highly traditional, standardized, and exam-focused environment—where success is defined solely by grades, routine, and discipline—may find our approach too flexible or unconventional.
Our classrooms are interactive and student-driven, not always quiet or test-heavy. We expect students to take initiative and actively shape their own learning. If a family prefers a school that provides strict direction with minimal student independence, our model may not align with their expectations.
We are best suited for families who value both academic achievement and personal growth—families who want their child to be challenged, supported, and prepared for a future that requires more than just good test scores."
7. To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?
"Families choose The Erindale Academy because we offer more than just strong academics—we offer purpose, direction, and personal attention. Many parents tell us they chose our...(more)
"Families choose The Erindale Academy because we offer more than just strong academics—we offer purpose, direction, and personal attention. Many parents tell us they chose our school because their child wasn’t thriving in large, standardized environments where individual needs were overlooked. At Erindale, every student is known by name, guided by mentors, and challenged to think beyond the textbook.
Our location next to the University of Toronto Mississauga is also a major draw. Families are inspired by the university atmosphere and the opportunities it provides—from guest lectures to early exposure to post-secondary life. They value our problem-based, future-focused curriculum that integrates AI, business innovation, and leadership development.
Ultimately, families choose us because they want a school that balances care with challenge, structure with creativity, and academics with purpose. They see that we are not preparing students just for tests—but for university and life."
8. How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?
"In the public eye, The Erindale Academy is seen as a small, forward-thinking private school that punches above its weight. We are recognized for our educational...(more)
"In the public eye, The Erindale Academy is seen as a small, forward-thinking private school that punches above its weight. We are recognized for our educational innovation—especially in how we prepare students not just for university, but for the future they are about to shape.
Our most prominent image is that of a university-preparatory school with a future-focused edge. Families and educators associate us with cutting-edge programs in AI, entrepreneurship, and project-based learning. We are known for our strategic location next to the University of Toronto Mississauga, our leadership in K–12 AI education, our role as the home of the Global Youth Challenge, and our academic collaboration with University of Toronto OISE professors on AI and critical educational innovation.
When people think of Erindale, they think of personalized learning, academic purpose, and global mindset—a school that feels small and caring, yet delivers the depth, relevance, and impact of something much larger."
9. What aspect of your school is underappreciated?
"1. Youth Global Challenge: Founded and hosted by our school, this initiative empowers young leaders to tackle real-world issues with creative and compassionate solutions.
"1. Youth Global Challenge: Founded and hosted by our school, this initiative empowers young leaders to tackle real-world issues with creative and compassionate solutions.
2. STEM & AI Conferences: We regularly host cutting-edge events that bring together students, experts, and educators to explore breakthroughs in science, technology, engineering, and artificial intelligence, helping students stay ahead in an ever-evolving world.
3. University Collaborations: Working with the Faculties of Education, our students benefit from the latest research and best practices in teaching and learning while inspiring future educators.
4. Expertise in Robotics & AI: With in-house specialists guiding hands-on experiences in robotics and AI applications, students gain practical skills and confidence in some of the world’s most exciting fields."
10. What might families find surprising about your school?
"One of the most underappreciated aspects of The Erindale Academy is the depth of mentorship and personalized support students receive—not just academically, but emotionally....(more)
"One of the most underappreciated aspects of The Erindale Academy is the depth of mentorship and personalized support students receive—not just academically, but emotionally. Families often notice our small classes and warm community, but may not realize how deeply our teachers invest in each student’s journey.
At Erindale, educators are mentors. Whether guiding university applications, supporting a student through illness, or helping them recover from setbacks, our care goes far beyond the classroom. This steady, individualized support builds confidence, resilience, and purpose over time.
Families may choose Erindale for academic strength, but what they come to value most is how personally we walk alongside each student. That quiet, unwavering mentorship is what truly sets us apart."
11. What improvements or changes has your school made recently?
"At The Erindale Academy, we’ve made bold strides toward future-focused education. A major milestone is our AI & Business Innovation course—a hands-on, interdisciplinary...(more)
"At The Erindale Academy, we’ve made bold strides toward future-focused education. A major milestone is our AI & Business Innovation course—a hands-on, interdisciplinary program combining AI, computer science, communication technology, and entrepreneurship. Students build real AI-powered startups, gaining practical, future-ready skills.
We also hosted a successful AI in Education Conference at the University of Toronto Mississauga, welcoming over 120 professors and admissions officers to explore AI's role in transforming learning. In addition, we expanded the Global Youth Challenge through partnerships with the University of Toronto, OISE Encore Lab, and the University of Ottawa—launching a Canadian division and offering scholarships .
These innovations reflect our commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology and real-world learning, preparing students to lead and thrive in a rapidly changing world."
12. How will your school change in the next 5 years?
"In the next five years, The Erindale Academy will deepen its role as a leader in holistic, future-focused education. We will enhance our core program with a focus on...(more)
"In the next five years, The Erindale Academy will deepen its role as a leader in holistic, future-focused education. We will enhance our core program with a focus on sustainability, interdisciplinary learning, hands-on projects, and 21st-century skills—preparing students not just for university, but for a changing world.
Our STEM program will expand, especially in AI, robotics, and innovation. We’ll grow our AI & Business Innovation course through real-world startup projects and student-led ventures. Stronger partnerships with UTM, UTSG (OISE), and others will offer students more access to research, mentorship, and early university exposure.
To support this growth, we plan a campus expansion with new collaborative spaces for STEM, AI, design thinking, and a fully equipped gym—enhancing both academic innovation and student well-being while staying true to our personalized, inquiry-driven model."
Gr. 12 — My name is Robert Zhan, and I’m a proud graduate of The Erindale Academy. After completing the Gaokao in China, I wasn’t satisfied with my university options, so I made the decision to spend a year at The Erindale Academy. That choice truly changed my life.
Following my time there, I was accepted into the Computer Science program at the University of Waterloo. Four years later, I graduated and began my career at a software development company in Toronto, where I’ve built a wonderful life for myself and my family.
I wholeheartedly recommend The Erindale Academy to anyone seeking a fresh start and new opportunities. It was a transformative experience that opened up a world of possibilities for me.
Gr. 12 (current) — My name is Rose Cai, and I'm from Guangzhou, China. I spent a year at The Erindale Academy, and it was truly a transformative experience. After just one year, I received multiple university offers, including my dream program at Western University's Business School. Living on campus was wonderful—the environment was safe, and the food was delicious!
One of the highlights for me was the personal support I received, especially in public speaking. I used to be quite nervous about it, but after just a few months of training, I placed in the top 16 of the Global Youth Challenge competition.
I also loved the focus on educational innovation. I took an interdisciplinary course in AI and business innovation, where we got to create our own startup. This course really changed my approach to learning, turning me into a more active, engaged learner. I even had the chance to present my project to professors and PhD students at the University of Toronto, which was an incredible learning experience.
The Erindale Academy is truly unique, and I highly recommend it to any student looking for personalized support and individual attention. I absolutely loved my time here!
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