Ann Scott founded Hitherfield in 1991 after a career within the Halton school board, and she remains at the head of the school today, giving a nice continuity to the development of the programs. The intention throughout has been to offer something that wasn’t offered in the public board, principally a more individualized, caring approach to learning. The school is small, and the size is one of its strengths. While it’s not a country school in name, the feel is comparable to schools that situate themselves within that movement—namely a learning environment that very much reflects the community that supports it. Parents are important to the life of the school, and are encouraged to take a role that will express their skills and interests. The ideal student is one looking for something more personal approach, one more attentive to the abilities, experience, and passion that students bring into the classroom.
We questioned the school adminstration
1. Who are you, as a school?
"Hitherfield is a co-ed, independent school for children in pre-school to grade 8. Hitherfield fosters high expectations of students, that are tempered by dedicated teachers and the individual support that they provide. Situated on 82 acres of pristine rolling countryside, 10 minutes from downtown Milton, Hitherfield School offers an array of outdoor activities and ample space to play. At Hitherfield traditional values go hand in hand with nurturing critical thinking, creativity and discovery."
82 acres: A beautiful landscape in a rural setting, just West of the GTA
STEM based curriculum allows students to develop a passion for learning.
OCT staff: A dedicated and recognized team of Ontario Certified Teachers
Free Bussing in the morning and afternoon for students
Values: Bridging the gap between traditional values and modern technological trends.
Ethics: Teaching concepts of respect, empathy, co-operation, responsibility, honesty and equality.
Cross country skiing
Pond studies
2. What do you do differently and uniquely well?
"Hitherfield stands apart from other schools through its uniquely nurturing, family-oriented environment rooted in over 30 years of tradition. Located on an expansive 85-acre...(more)
"Hitherfield stands apart from other schools through its uniquely nurturing, family-oriented environment rooted in over 30 years of tradition. Located on an expansive 85-acre property, Hitherfield offers a nature-rich setting that fosters curiosity, creativity, and independence. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, while a balanced curriculum blends academic excellence with strong character development. Unlike larger institutions, Hitherfield maintains a close-knit community where every student is known and supported. Our progressive discipline approach and commitment to student well-being set us apart, ensuring a safe, respectful, and inclusive learning space."
3. What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?
"At Hitherfield School, our unwavering commitment to nurturing the whole child—academically, emotionally, and socially—requires us to make intentional tradeoffs that reflect...(more)
"At Hitherfield School, our unwavering commitment to nurturing the whole child—academically, emotionally, and socially—requires us to make intentional tradeoffs that reflect our core values. We prioritize small class sizes, hands-on learning, and deep student-teacher relationships over rigid standardization and heavy reliance on digital tools. As a result, while students may not be immersed in the latest tech trends or standardized testing regimes, they benefit from an education rooted in connection, curiosity, and character.
We also consciously emphasize a structured yet flexible learning environment that values emotional intelligence, personal accountability, and empathy. This sometimes comes at the cost of fast-paced, highly competitive academic programming. We believe childhood is not a race, and that learning should be paced to fit the child—not the other way around.
These tradeoffs mean that Hitherfield students grow in confidence, kindness, and self-awareness. Families who alig"
4. What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?
Information not yet available.
5. What type of student is a good fit for your school?
Information not yet available.
6. Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?
"Students who may not thrive at Hitherfield are those who seek a fast-paced, highly competitive academic environment or prefer heavy use of technology in learning. Our school...(more)
"Students who may not thrive at Hitherfield are those who seek a fast-paced, highly competitive academic environment or prefer heavy use of technology in learning. Our school values steady, personalized growth and emotional well-being over academic acceleration and standardized testing. Students who struggle significantly with self-regulation and resist consistent behavioural expectations might find it challenging to adjust here. Because we emphasize a calm, respectful community, students needing intensive behavioural interventions may not find their needs fully met. Hitherfield is best suited for families who prioritize character development, strong relationships, and a balanced, nurturing approach to education over rapid academic advancement or high-stimulation settings."
7. To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?
"Families choose Hitherfield School because of its unique learning environment nestled in nature, offering expansive outdoor play spaces that encourage exploration and physical...(more)
"Families choose Hitherfield School because of its unique learning environment nestled in nature, offering expansive outdoor play spaces that encourage exploration and physical activity. Unlike many schools confined to traditional classrooms, Hitherfield provides children with daily access to fresh air, green spaces, and hands-on outdoor learning opportunities that inspire curiosity and well-being.
Parents appreciate the warm, family-like atmosphere where every child is known personally and supported by a close-knit community of teachers, staff, and families. This sense of belonging, combined with our emphasis on character development and personalized attention, creates a nurturing environment that many families find unavailable in larger or more conventional schools. The connection to nature and community at Hitherfield makes it a special place for children to grow academically, socially, and emotionally."
8. How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?
"Hitherfield School is seen by the public as a trusted, welcoming institution with deep roots in the community. Its image is that of a nurturing, family-centered school where...(more)
"Hitherfield School is seen by the public as a trusted, welcoming institution with deep roots in the community. Its image is that of a nurturing, family-centered school where personalized education and character development come first. People recognize Hitherfield for its unique natural setting and commitment to providing a safe, supportive environment that feels like an extended family. While not the largest or most high-profile private school, it is respected for its stability, longevity, and the consistent values upheld by generations of leadership. Families and neighbors view it as a place where children are genuinely cared for and encouraged to grow at their own pace, making it a cherished local educational gem."
9. What aspect of your school is underappreciated?
"An often underappreciated strength of Hitherfield School is the remarkable consistency in leadership and staffing that ensures stability for students and families. With an average...(more)
"An often underappreciated strength of Hitherfield School is the remarkable consistency in leadership and staffing that ensures stability for students and families. With an average teacher tenure of over 10 years, our experienced and dedicated staff create a seamless and reassuring educational experience. This continuity supports smooth transitions during leadership changes and helps maintain the school’s core values over time. Coupled with our unique, peaceful location surrounded by nature, this consistency fosters a dependable, grounded environment where students can focus on learning and growth without disruption."
10. What might families find surprising about your school?
Information not yet available.
11. What improvements or changes has your school made recently?
"Hitherfield School has made several recent improvements to enhance the student experience. Ongoing renovations have upgraded learning spaces, creating more modern, engaging...(more)
"Hitherfield School has made several recent improvements to enhance the student experience. Ongoing renovations have upgraded learning spaces, creating more modern, engaging classrooms and expanded outdoor play areas that encourage exploration and physical activity. These changes support hands-on and nature-based learning, aligned with the school’s values. Additionally, participation in varsity sports has increased significantly, offering students more opportunities to develop teamwork and leadership skills through a variety of athletic programs. Field trips have also become more frequent and diverse, providing valuable real-world experiences that complement classroom learning. Together, these improvements reflect Hitherfield’s commitment to creating a dynamic, well-rounded environment where students grow academically, socially, and physically."
12. How will your school change in the next 5 years?
"Over the next five years, Hitherfield School will remain deeply committed to maintaining our small class sizes and family-like atmosphere—core elements we will never compromise....(more)
"Over the next five years, Hitherfield School will remain deeply committed to maintaining our small class sizes and family-like atmosphere—core elements we will never compromise. While preserving this close-knit community feel, we will continue to enhance our programs and facilities to enrich every aspect of our students’ daily experience. Expect thoughtful upgrades to learning spaces, expanded outdoor activities, and new opportunities that support academic, social, and physical growth. Our focus will be on evolving in ways that honor our values, ensuring each child feels known, supported, and inspired as they learn and grow in a nurturing environment."
I love it at Hitherfield. On my first day, I went into my 2/3 three-room, with no idea what to do. My teacher, Mrs. Cameron gave us each a cut paper apple and said, "the matching pair to your apple will be your desk partner for the first month or so." What I didn't know was that the school I was in was going to be my desk partner.
One thing I would change about Hitherfield would be to make sure that if you couldn't get something you wanted to be done last year, do it this year, accomplish more than before.
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