Burlington Schools Explained – The Ultimate Relocation Guide for Parents (2025 Edition)

If you're planning a move to Burlington, Ontario, one of the most important things you'll want to know is — how good are the schools? For many families, school districts and programs play a huge role in choosing the right neighbourhood.

In this Burlington School Guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know — from public and Catholic school systems, Fraser Institute ratings, gifted programs, IB and AP courses, and even private school options. Plus, we’ll explain how school zones can directly impact real estate prices in Burlington.

✅ Understanding Burlington’s School System

Burlington is part of the Halton Region and is served by four school boards:

• Halton District School Board (HDSB) – Public English Schools

• Halton Catholic District School Board (HCDSB) – Catholic English Schools

• Conseil Scolaire Viamonde – French-language Public Schools

• Conseil Scolaire Catholique MonAvenir – French-language Catholic Schools

Families can choose between public, Catholic, French immersion, or full French instruction depending on their child’s needs and eligibility.

✅ School Catchment Areas – Why Your Address Matters

In Burlington, your home address determines which public school your child can attend. Each school has a defined catchment area or boundary zone.

✅ Check your school catchment here: Halton School Locator Tool

This is why school zones often play a major role in real estate prices.
Homes in highly-rated school zones tend to be in higher demand — driving up home values.

✅ Fraser Institute School Rankings – Do They Matter?

Many parents use Fraser Institute school rankings as a guide when comparing schools. The rankings are based on standardized test scores and other academic performance indicators.

While not perfect, these scores can give you a general idea of academic strength.
Top-rated schools often attract more buyers, which means homes in those areas may be more expensive.

Some of Burlington’s best-ranked neighbourhoods for schools include:

• Millcroft

• Alton Village

• Tyandaga 

✅ Specialty School Programs in Burlington

Burlington offers a wide range of special programs to help students thrive:

🎯 French Immersion

Available from Grade 1, allowing students to develop strong bilingual skills.

🎯 Gifted Program

Students undergo assessments around Grade 3 or 4. If qualified, they join specialized classes designed to challenge them academically.
✅ Part of the public system — no extra cost.

🎯 IB – International Baccalaureate

Offered at Burlington Central High School, the IB program is globally recognized and excellent for university preparation.

🎯 AP – Advanced Placement

Some Burlington high schools offer AP courses allowing students to earn university credits while in high school.

🎯 I-STEM Program (HDSB)

An innovative four-year program focusing on engineering, design thinking, and entrepreneurial skills. Prepares students for the rapidly changing tech-driven world.

🎯 Specialist High Skills Majors (SHSM)

Career-focused programs in areas like arts, tech, health, and sports.

✅ Private School Options in Burlington

Burlington also offers several excellent private school options for families seeking smaller class sizes, enriched programs, or faith-based education.

Popular private schools include:

• Fern Hill School

• Burlington Royal Arts Academy

• Trinity Christian School

• Hillfield Strathallan College (nearby Hamilton but popular with Burlington families)

🎯 Tuition Costs:

• Montessori and elementary programs: $10,000 to $15,000 per year

• Private high schools: $20,000 to $30,000 per year

Some families start in private school for early education, then switch to public or Catholic schools later.

✅ Sports, Extracurriculars, and Parental Involvement

Burlington schools emphasize balanced development:
✅ Competitive sports — football, basketball, volleyball, soccer
✅ Arts, drama, music, robotics clubs

Parents are encouraged to engage:

• Join Parent Councils

• Volunteer for Breakfast Programs

• Participate in school events and fundraising

Parental involvement enriches the school community and enhances your child’s experience.

✅ How School Zones Impact Burlington Real Estate Prices

It’s simple economics — high demand for homes in top school zones leads to higher property values.

That’s why certain neighbourhoods in Burlington command premium prices — not because of newer homes, but because of school ratings and catchment areas.

If you’re house hunting, be sure to balance:

• School rankings

• Commute times

• Neighbourhood vibe

• Long-term family needs

✅ Common Mistakes Relocation Buyers Make

✔️ Assuming open school enrollment — Burlington is catchment-based.
✔️ Only focusing on new subdivisions — some older areas have better schools.
✔️ Overlooking commute times — top schools might add 20-30 mins to your drive.

Pro Tip: Work with a local Realtor who knows the neighbourhoods and the schools.

✅ Final Thoughts – Choosing the Right School & Neighbourhood

Burlington is known for its strong school system, family-friendly neighbourhoods, and vibrant community.

When relocating, start by:
✅ Checking school catchments
✅ Researching Fraser rankings as a starting point
✅ Considering specialty programs — IB, AP, Gifted, French, I-STEM
✅ Factoring in private school options and costs

Choosing the right school is just as important as choosing the right home.

🎯 Need Help Navigating Burlington’s Schools and Real Estate?

As a local Burlington Realtor, I specialize in helping families relocate and find homes in the best school zones.

Reach out anytime for advice or a neighbourhood tour.

📩 Contact me: www.realtorroshan.ca

✅ Follow my YouTube Channel for more Burlington and Oakville insights
👉 Where to Live in Oakville and Burlington

Roshan Basnet is a seasoned real estate broker with extensive experience in the Oakville and Burlington markets. Known for his personalized approach and deep market knowledge, Roshan is dedicated to helping clients make informed decisions and achieve their real estate goals. Whether buying or selling, working with Roshan means partnering with a trusted expert who ensures a smooth and successful real estate journey.