How many children attend private school in Canada?

Canada has about 1,700 private and independent schools educating more than 280,000 students, from toddlers to teenagers.

About 6 per cent of children in Canada attend private schools.

What's the difference between "private" schools and "independent" schools?

Fee-charging schools are collectively known as private schools, meaning they are operated privately by individuals or groups.

The term also covers a subgroup known as independent schools, which are usually run as not-for-profit organizations answerable to a board of trustees. Unused revenue from tuition fees is reinvested in the school.

What kinds of schools are there, in general?

Private schools can be same-sex or co-ed, religious or secular, and can follow traditional or alternative teaching methods.

About half the private schools in Canada follow religious principles, including Christian, Jewish and Muslim.

Some alternative schools, such as Montessori or Waldorf schools, adhere to distinct educational philosophies.

You'll also find schools geared to children with special needs, or those that focus on students gifted in the arts or sports.

How big are most private schools?

You can find private schools with as few as 20 students or more than 1,000. Larger schools will typically have better facilities and more course options, but many parents and students look for the individualized attention provided at small schools.

Private schools usually offer a lower student-to-teacher ratio than do public schools. When you're considering a school for your child, always ask about its average and maximum class sizes, and the teacher-student ratio.

What are the academic options available to my child?

Private schools offer a wide range of academic choices, including International and French Baccalaureates, Advanced Placement, and British O and A levels.

When checking out a school for your child, ask about how its curriculum prepares students for Canadian and international university entrance.

Also ask detailed questions about the regime of testing and examinations; the expectations on homework; and whether the school offers immersion in French or other languages.

How does my child get into a private school?

Many schools have more applicants than they can handle.

Admission procedures vary from school to school — and the ability to pay the tuition fee isn't the only determining factor.

Potential students usually have to pass admission tests and meet academic, athletic and creative standards that may be higher than expected in public schools.

A religious school may require proof of membership in the faith (although many religion-based schools are open to all faiths).

What about teachers?

When considering a school, ask how it chooses its teachers, what kinds of credentials are mandatory, and how the teachers are assessed and evaluated.

Talk to teachers as well as school administrators, and to other parents and students.

Ideally, you and your child should spend time in the classroom to see how subjects are taught, and students respond.

What else is offered?

Extra-curricular activities can be as important a factor for your child's education as a school's academic record.

For example, ask about its provision of sports facilities, music, drama, technology and international trips.

How much does it cost?

Tuition fees vary widely, from $10,000 to $30,000 (or more) per school year.

But many good private schools cost considerably less than the well-known, traditional institutions, and many schools offer scholarships and bursaries.

Some also offer monthly payments plans, so don't hesitate to discuss financial aspects in detail with school administrators.

Along with tuition, there may also be fees for uniforms, meals, materials or other expenses. Be sure you know what the final tally will be.

What about boarding school?

Boarding school is a major commitment for students and families, both emotionally and financially (anywhere from $25,000 to $40,000 a year).

But boarding school usually offers increased academic challenges, more exposure to arts and sports, and opportunities for personal growth through travel and volunteer work.

Where can I find out more?

Most schools hold open houses, usually in spring and fall, so check with individual schools for details. You can also find out about a school from its website, or from general websites such as:

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