Top Best High Schools in Edmonton 2023

A high school can make a big difference in a student’s life in Edmonton, one of the best places to live and attend school. The most important part of finding the best school is identifying which schools provide the best education and offer students the most support and opportunities. If you’re looking to enroll or transfer your teenager to a high school in Edmonton, our list of the best high schools in Edmonton can help.

A list of schools that will help further your child’s higher education has been compiled for you. Many local parents, some alumni, or whose children are currently attending these schools highly recommend these educational institutions. Read about the best Edmonton high schools near me for your children!

1- Harry Ainlay High School:

Website: harryainlay.epsb.ca/

Phone: +17804132700

Address: 4350 111 St NW, Edmonton, AB T6J 1E8, Canada

As one of the largest south Edmonton high schools, Harry Ainlay has a broad range of programming to suit the needs of all students. A wide range of educational backgrounds, socioeconomic levels, and ethnicities are represented among their students. Among their students, there is excellence in academics, the arts, athletics, and citizenship. There is a constant demonstration of support from their parents and community. Those wishing to pursue bilingual education can participate in the IB curriculum and the French Immersion program. There are sports teams for curling, volleyball, basketball, and more. As part of their support for their athletes, they also established donation programs. They strive to achieve optimal learning for all students as they strive for ‘excellence in all things’ in a vibrant, diverse learning community.

 

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Students and staff strive to demonstrate a culture of character and citizenship within the school and the community. Students show a dedication to their learning when a safe and inclusive environment models, recognizes and celebrates exceptional character. The importance of educating all stakeholders is a vital aspect of making character connections. Their students look up to them as role models, so whether they realize it or not, they have a responsibility to model positive character traits. Their actions, reactions, and decisions will directly influence their students’ actions, say, and think.

What do clients think?

Best school for all diversity in musical arts , tech, mechanics, art, welding, immense sporting culture and a well kept theater for the performing arts 10/10 recommend(Google reviews)

Harry Ainlay is by far the best school I have attended. There is a very low amount of bullying if any at all. There’s just something about ainlay where anyone can find a place to fit in if they look for it. The school spirit which seems to have been passed on for years (proof by ms.knudsen) is insane. There’s almost always something happening in the rotunda, (like culture fest or one of many dance-offs). And although ainlay may go a little overboard when it comes to sports, there’s a ton of other opportunities that are non-sports related too. It’s just an overall great environment to work in. (You hardly even notice the -no windows in any of the classes thing.)(Google reviews)

2- Ross Sheppard School:

Website: rosssheppard.epsb.ca/

Phone:+17804485000

Address: 13546 111 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5M 2P2, Canada

One of the most prestigious high schools in the region is Ross Sheppard High School. They offer several academic programs, including the International Baccalaureate program and other programs such as French Immersion, fine arts, off-campus education, etc. Several scholarships and opportunities are also offered to deserving students. The learning environment at this institution is based on a tradition of excellence and focused on the future. Meeting the needs of 21st-century learners is their most important commitment in an ever-changing world. To prepare their students for a global future, they offer them a range of opportunities to become involved and achieve in academics, leadership, athletics, arts, and service.

 

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You can get all kinds of help from Student Services, including scholarships, career information, post-secondary options, student financing, and academic counselling. As your advisor, they’re here to assist you with planning your future, helping you reach your academic potential, and listening to your concerns. In the middle hallway of Ross Sheppard, they have counsellors available to all students through the Student Services office. You can get information and guidance from a counsellor on education, occupation, post-secondary education, and personal finances. As one of Edmonton’s best high schools, they have a good record and are committed to better education.

What do clients think?

such a great school with an amazing atmosphere and staff. I was very sad to leave the school right before grade twelve and i really wish i would have found a way to stay there. Its honestly such a great school(Google reviews)

I love this school so much I’m so sad to leave, this place is massive, I’m gonna miss mr scaber and mr brays chaotic social class, so many options and programs, I really wish I could graduate here(Google reviews)

3- Centre High Campus:

Website: centrehigh.epsb.ca/

Phone: +17804256753

Address: 10050 MacDonald Dr NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 2B7, Canada

A dynamic high school in downtown Edmonton, Centre High Campus allows students in their fourth or fifth year of high school to upgrade and explore post-secondary and career options. They are a blended-learning campus that offers both secondary and post-secondary education. Students at the Center High Campus complete high school, upgrade their existing grades, enroll in courses for their careers, or begin post-secondary education. Center High Campus’s central location in downtown Edmonton has enabled it to form strong partnerships with the business community that benefit students.

 

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Their relationships extend beyond the first step toward post-secondary education, from financial aid to work experience, job shadowing and internship opportunities. In addition to providing programming for students to obtain or upgrade their high school diploma requirements, they offer any student a ‘gap year’ to explore and experience opportunities that can help guide their future choices, develop self-awareness, and develop leadership and community skills. Their mission at Center High Campus is to prepare their students for post-secondary study and the world of work. Every student at Centre High has access to information and strategies that will aid them in preparing for their future by focusing on Career Development. Every student should leave school with a clear vision of their future. All of them are committed to eliminating objectionable behaviour in their schools and workplaces and cultivating a respectful, safe, nurturing and positive environment.

What do clients think?

I spent one and a half years at Centre High and it was amazing. The school has top notch teachers which are well experienced in their teaching and want their students to succeed. There are tutors for all subjects in the library for any additional help. Highly recommend this school for any academic upgrading!!!(Google reviews)

The atmosphere of this school is so unlike regular high school it’s crazy. I went to upgrade in sciences and I had an amazing experience with dedicated teachers and flexible scheduling. I had so many opportunities for personal growth and supplementary learning. I am so glad I chose to go here and I would highly recommend it to anyone who isnt sure about post secondary yet or needs to upgrade.(Google reviews)

4- Strathcona High School :

Website:  strathcona.epsb.ca/

Phone: +17804393957

Address: 10450 72 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 0Z6, Canada

Founded in 1955, Strathcona High boasts a large number of graduates from the local area. There are a number of academic programs offered by them that can prepare your children for university or work after they graduate from high school. Moreover, they offer bilingual German and Spanish programs and advanced placement courses. Edmonton’s Strathcona community offers an educational environment unlike any other. Passion for education infuses the classrooms with inspiration, just as a dedication to performance infuses the gymnasiums with sweat. The Strathcona school believes in being well-rounded rather than focusing on a specific niche, such as jocks, mathletes, drama geeks, and circus acrobats. Their band, club, team, and activity offerings enable students to build lasting friendships and experience a well-rounded high school experience.

pic.twitter.com/9kSIspEd6U

— Strathcona High School (@SconaHigh) March 3, 2021

Despite changes in technology and facility enhancements over the past century, some things have remained the same, and they’re proud of it. Their students positively impact the community by looking out for each other. Diverse perspectives on the world around Strathcona students are valued and respected. The academic programs at the university offer students the choice of specializations in fine arts and languages other than English, business, and technical fields. Since most of their graduates come from the local area, they have earned the trust of families there for generations.

What do clients think?

Great school. Many opportunities for athletics as well as fine arts. Very strong AP program – the largest in Canada. Made a lot of friends here and it felt really inclusive overall. Most of the teachers are really caring, there are a few bad apples but that is the case with all schools. Had an amazing high school experience here – would definitely recommend.(Google reviews)

Had good times here. One of the best drama programs ever with an AMAZING teacher who’s the department head. She’s surely one-of-a-kind. School holds quite a few events. Even though every school is gonna have some rude students, I never had a bullying issue. (Google reviews)

5- Austin O’Brien High School:

Website: austinobrien.ecsd.net

Phone: +17804663161

Address:  6110 95 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6B 1A5, Canada

Austin O’Brien Catholic High School is located in southeast Edmonton and serves 966 students. Parents whose children are raised in the Catholic tradition generally like the school which follows Catholic values. There are a number of academic programs offered at this school, including dual credit programs, summer school, diploma preparation, and more. Athletics, arts, and academic excellence are long-standing traditions at the school. At Austin O’Brien, you develop respect, honesty, loyalty, fairness, and a sense of community and personal growth that reflect the values of a Catholic education. Students participate in school activities through prayer, retreats, social justice, and community service. Providing students with an opportunity to achieve their full potential and become responsible, productive, and balanced individuals is their school’s mission.

Edmonton Catholic Schools is welcoming new students for the 2023-2024 school year. Attend an open house at one of our 96 schools, or register today! Bringing Catholic Education to Life! #ECSD #ECSDfaithinspires #yegschools pic.twitter.com/UpDRc3LnO2

— ECSD (@EdmCathSchools) February 7, 2023

Several strong academic programs are available at the school to prepare students for the challenges of post-secondary education. Various experiential and digital learning opportunities inspire their students to pursue higher education at the post-secondary level in the humanities, sciences, arts, health education, and career and technology. Aside from Ukrainian, Polish and Spanish, Austin O’Brien offers three bilingual language programs. Students immerse themselves in language and culture with their peers for three years. This is one of the best Edmonton high schools for parents seeking a Catholic education for their children.

What do clients think?

6- Old Scona Academic:

Website: oldscona.epsb.ca/

Phone: +17804330627

Address: 10523 84 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 2H5, Canada

Established in 1976, Old Scona Academic high school challenges students who strive for excellence in everything they do. Those accepted to the school will receive instruction in both the Alberta Education and the International Baccalaureate curricula. A legacy of academic excellence at Old Scona supports the school’s focus as a university preparatory institution. In addition to being one of the oldest high schools in Western Canada, Old Scona is a world-renowned academic center for students who wish to experience additional rigour and challenge. They connect their graduates with the most prestigious universities all over the world and offer them a multitude of scholarships each year. The small size of Old Scona Academic allows students to demonstrate their leadership and character attributes in an exceptional environment.

There are no classes Thursday, March 2 and Friday, March 3 for Teachers’ Convention. Find more important dates and holidays for 2022-23: https://t.co/yM206iTzyd #EPSB #yeg pic.twitter.com/8nJZf1KeAV

— EPSB (@EPSBNews) February 24, 2023

A collaborative, sharing, tolerable, and successful atmosphere is found at Old Scona Academic. In this enriched cultural environment, students quickly learn that their teachers and fellow students provide stimulation and motivation for learning and that it is their responsibility to reciprocate. Old Scona Academic is often called a university preparatory school. Albertans highly regard their academic programs, and their student population is small (fewer than 400). You can also sign up your child for extracurricular activities like a student union, clubs, and sports teams. Its long history of providing quality education makes it one of the best Edmonton high schools.

What do clients think?

Old SCONA Academic is an variety of the diverse and talented best students in all of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada 🇨🇦 As an Alumnus 👨‍🎓 I am truly amazed by it’s diligence and strives to always Excel in Academics, Arts 🎭, and Sports 🏑 …(Google reviews)

Historical building with unique design which shows the building age.(Google reviews)

To Sum up:

We have concluded our list of the best Edmonton high schools. There are many high schools in Edmonton, each with its unique strengths and focuses. When choosing a school for your child or yourself, make sure you do your own research and visit the schools. Hopefully, this helps you find a great school for your child to learn relevant skills for university or the workplace.

Do you know of any other best high schools in Edmonton 2023 that we missed? Feel free to send us a message, and we’ll promptly update the article.

FAQs about best high schools in Edmonton: 

✅What are some of the best high schools in Edmonton?

There are several top-performing high schools in Edmonton, including Old Scona Academic, Strathcona High School, and Victoria School of the Arts.

✅What makes these high schools stand out?

These schools are known for their rigorous academic programs, dedicated teachers, and supportive learning environments. They also offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, including athletics, music, drama, and community service.

✅How do I apply to these high schools?

Each school has its own application process, so it’s best to check with the individual school’s website or admissions office for specific instructions. In general, however, you will likely need to submit transcripts, test scores, and letters of recommendation.

✅Are these high schools open to students of all backgrounds and abilities?

Yes, these high schools are open to all students regardless of their background or abilities. However, admission to some programs or classes may be competitive and require additional qualifications.

✅What resources are available to support students at these high schools?

Each school has its own resources and support services for students, including academic advisors, counseling services, and extracurricular clubs and activities. Many of these schools also have partnerships with local colleges and universities, providing students with access to additional resources and opportunities.

✅How do these high schools in Edmonton prepare students for college or university?

These high schools offer challenging academic programs that are designed to prepare students for college or university. In addition, many of these schools have partnerships with local colleges and universities, offering advanced courses, dual enrollment options, and other opportunities for college-level learning.

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