Established in 2002[1] by Richard Wernham, Julia West, David J. Latimer and John R. Latimer,[2] the school provides an experiential education to over 500 students in Grades 7 through 12. The school is housed in a facility built in 2002 which was expanded and renovated in 2016. In addition to its urban campus, Greenwood also uses several outdoor facilities.
Founding principal David Thompson left Greenwood in June 2008 become the Headmaster at Lakefield College School. The former Vice-Principal, Allan Hardy, was appointed his successor.
Greenwood completed a renovation and expansion of its main facility in 2016. The expansion increased the school's square footage by 120% and added several new facilities, including a second gym, a performance theatre, new science labs, large Learning Community classrooms and a rooftop terrace outdoor classroom. Greenwood's sports teams use nearby facilities including Leaside Arena, the University of Toronto Athletic Centre, Deer Park Pool and Sunnybrook Park.
Post expansion
After completing the renovation and expansion, Greenwood's student body grew to 500.[3] Founding principal David Thompson left Greenwood in June 2008 to become the Headmaster at Lakefield College School. The former Vice-Principal, Allan Hardy, was appointed his successor. Upon Allan's retirement in 2018, Sarah Bruce became the Principal. In 2024, former Deputy Head of School, Heather Thomas, was appointed as her successor.
The tuition fee for the 204-2025 academic year were $44,920.[4] For new students there is a one-time registration fee of $9,000. Tuition covers student participation in all school programs, including the Outdoor Leadership Program for grades 7 to 11, which includes trips to locations across Canada.[5] Like many independent schools with a Bring Your Own Device program, students are required to purchase a laptop with the required programs installed.
Outdoor education
With academics, Greenwood College School's students are immersed in the school's Outdoor Education Program. The founders intended to create a school with strong academics, as well as a learning environment where children are given the opportunity to learn outdoors and leadership and teamwork are essential.[6]
Greenwood's outdoor education program includes trips in the fall and winter, considered to be essential character-building experiences that encourage the development of perseverance and leadership.[7] The fall program begins a few days into the school year.
Service learning
Greenwood's Service Learning program gives students the opportunity to participate in a variety of initiatives.[8] On Wednesdays, classes start late to give staff the opportunity to participate in professional development sessions as students take part in community service.[9]
Greenwood is the only school in Ontario involved in the Hockey H.E.R.O.S. program, where students act as hockey instructors for children aged 8 to 12 years from Toronto's inner city communities.[10]
