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Education

Where Inspired Girls Become Empowered Women

St. Mildred's-Lightbourn School in Olde Oakville has spent 135 years learning exactly how girls learn best, from Canada's first all-girls robotics team to Grade 11 internships.

Presented by St. Mildred's-Lightbourn School · · 2 min read
Where Inspired Girls Become Empowered Women

As the premier independent girls school west of Toronto, St. Mildred’s-Lightbourn School has established a 135-year legacy of academic excellence — in a community designed entirely for how girls learn best. Here, we combine a rigorous educational foundation with thoughtful use of technology and a supportive environment that inspires students from JK through Grade 12 to challenge boundaries, express their voices, and lead with absolute confidence.

Nestled on a breathtaking 10-acre campus in the heart of Olde Oakville, SMLS has dedicated itself to a singular, profound mission: understanding exactly how girls learn best, and providing them with an environment where they can thrive. Each girl’s journey is personalized, and she is encouraged to explore her unique passions, develop her full potential, and gain the resilience needed to thrive in an ever-changing global landscape

At the core of the SMLS experience is small classrooms and an uncompromising focus on academic excellence. The forward-thinking curriculum includes five unique Signature Programs designed to bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world impact:

In this all-girls setting, students occupy every single leadership role, voice their opinions without fear, and mentor younger students. Deeply supported by an award-winning faculty of experts in girls' development and a robust Student Success Centre, graduates are fully equipped for higher education. The proof is in the results: the Class of 2026 alone secured over 265 offers of admission from the world's leading universities.

“St. Mildred’s-Lightbourn School is a very special place — a girls’ school, created by women, for women over 135 years ago.” Catherine Hant, Head of School

Yet, ask any alumna — affectionately known as a “Millie” — and she will tell you that the true magic of this prestigious school lies in its warm community. It is a lifelong network that provides mentorship and professional opportunities long after graduation.

Choosing a school is about choosing who your daughter will become. Give her the gift of an education where she is encouraged to take bold risks and discover her true potential.

Inspired Girls. Empowered Women. Since 1891.


Book your private tour or discovery call today. Visit www.smls.on.ca or contact our Admissions team at 905-845-5830.

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St. Mildred's-Lightbourn School

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From the print editionThe August 2026 Travel and Lifestyle cover of The Canada Magazine

As featured in The Canada Magazine, August 2026 issue.

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