Where Children Grow, Explore, and Thrive
Hillcrest Progressive School is a warm, community-driven private school in Toronto offering Preschool, Kindergarten, and Elementary programs rooted in progressive education, creativity, and whole-child development.
- Small class sizes with individualized attention
- Experienced, caring educators who know every child
- Hands-on, inquiry-based learning that sparks curiosity
- Strong community and family involvement
Now accepting applications for the upcoming school year. Limited spaces available in select grades.
Programs at Hillcrest Progressive School
From early childhood through the elementary years, Hillcrest offers a continuum of programs that support each child’s academic, social, and emotional growth.
Preschool
Our Preschool program provides a warm, play-based environment where children develop social, emotional, and early academic skills through exploration and discovery.
Kindergarten
Our Kindergarten blends structure with creativity, helping children build foundational literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving skills in a joyful, supportive setting.
Elementary
Our Elementary program fosters curiosity, independence, and academic excellence through hands-on learning, collaboration, and individualized instruction.
Why Families Choose Hillcrest
Parents choose Hillcrest Progressive School for its balance of strong academics, nurturing relationships, and a vibrant community that truly knows and supports each child.
- Whole-child focus: We care about academic growth, social skills, emotional well-being, and character.
- Safe, welcoming environment: Children feel known, respected, and encouraged to be themselves.
- Progressive approach: Learning is active, hands-on, and connected to real life.
- Strong home–school partnership: Families are valued partners in their child’s education.
- Community feel: A close-knit school where relationships matter and every child is seen.
Hillcrest Progressive School is a small, community-focused private school in Toronto. Our Preschool, Kindergarten, and Elementary programs are designed to help children grow into confident, curious, and compassionate learners.
We combine a progressive philosophy with a warm, family-like atmosphere, so children feel both challenged and supported every day.
Our Educational Philosophy
Hillcrest Progressive School is built on the belief that children learn best when they feel safe, supported, and inspired. Our progressive approach emphasizes inquiry, creativity, and real-world learning.
We nurture the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally—so every student can grow into a confident, compassionate, and capable learner.
- Child-centered, developmentally appropriate practice
- Learning through play, exploration, and inquiry
- Strong relationships between students, teachers, and families
- Inclusive, welcoming community where every child belongs
Our Educators
Our teachers are the heart of Hillcrest. They are experienced, dedicated, and deeply committed to creating a warm, inclusive environment where every child feels seen and valued.
- •Experienced educators with a passion for progressive, child-centered learning.
- •Strong focus on building relationships and understanding each child’s unique strengths.
- •Ongoing professional development to stay current with best practices in education.
A Day in the Life at Hillcrest
Each day at Hillcrest is carefully structured to balance academics, play, creativity, and community. Children move through their day with a sense of rhythm, security, and joy.
- •Morning welcome and community time to build connection and set a positive tone.
- •Literacy and numeracy blocks with hands-on, differentiated activities.
- •Outdoor play and physical activity to support health and well-being.
- •Art, music, and creative projects that encourage self-expression.
- •Inquiry-based projects that connect learning to the real world.
Admissions: How to Get Started
Choosing a school is a big decision. Our admissions process is designed to be warm, personal, and informative so you can feel confident about your choice.
Review our Preschool, Kindergarten, and Elementary programs to see which is the best fit for your child.
Visit our campus, see our classrooms in action, and meet our educators and leadership team.
Submit your application and speak with our admissions team about next steps and availability.
What Parents Say
Families choose Hillcrest Progressive School for its nurturing environment, strong academics, and close-knit community.
“Hillcrest has been a second home for our child. The teachers are warm, patient, and truly invested in each student’s growth.”
— Parent of a Kindergarten student
“The small class sizes and individualized attention make such a difference. Our daughter has blossomed academically and socially.”
— Parent of a Grade 2 student
“We love the sense of community at Hillcrest. Families feel welcomed and involved, and the school truly cares about every child.”
— Parent of a Preschool student
Frequently Asked Questions
Discover Hillcrest Progressive School
We invite you to visit our campus, meet our educators, and experience the warm, nurturing environment that makes Hillcrest so special. See firsthand how our progressive approach supports your child’s growth, curiosity, and confidence.
Schedule a Tour Contact the School Office