Student Citizenship & Leadership

Student Life & Belonging
Student Life & Belonging at The York School consists of a team of staff and student leaders who create community initiatives, awareness campaigns and spirit events that build a culture of connection and contribute to the positive, day-to-day experience for all members of our school.

Within Student Life & Belonging are 5 main components: Student Leadership, Service Learning, Co-Curricular Clubs, Experiential Education and the House Program.

House System

House System
The York School’s Spirit House system provides exciting opportunities for students of all ages and grades to socialize and build relationships. House events also foster the development of leadership skills.
 
Spirit House competitions are held from time to time, and students can earn points for their Houses by enjoying a variety of activities within the school setting.
 
This system was developed in 1982 and has provided a structure for school spirit and fun competition ever since. In September 2023, we introduced new names and logos for our Spirit Houses. The new names correspond to the four elements – Earth, Air, Fire and Water – and each one is a symbol of the contributions that Spirit House members make to our community. 
 
Earth represents the strong foundation of our community. It keeps us grounded and encourages our growth.

Air is the connection between our physical and mental states. Air is what brings mindfulness and balance to our community.

Fire is the passion within our community and the spark of curiosity that inspires us to embrace new opportunities and challenge ourselves to take risks.

Water represents what connects all members of our community. Water is the undercurrent that binds us together and sustains our relationships.

Our new Spirit Houses will help us build even stronger relationships across the York community!

About the York School

The York School is a gender-inclusive JK to Grade 12 independent school located in the heart of Toronto. The York School was founded in 1965 and is the first English speaking school in Canada accredited to offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) from junior kindergarten (JK) to university entrance. As an IB World School, The York School's motto is Experience Teaches.

Contact Us

Junior School (Grades JK-5) 1639 Yonge Street Toronto, Ontario M4T 2W6 
 
Middle School (Grades 6-8) & Senior School (Grades 9-12) 1320 Yonge Street Toronto, Ontario M4T 1X2 | Tel: 416.926.1325
 
Mailing address: 1320 Yonge Street, Toronto, Ontario M4T 1X2
Attendance:
Junior School: 1639attendance@yorkschool.com
Middle & Senior School:

1320attendance@yorkschool.com

Admission:
admission@yorkschool.com

General Questions:
reception@yorkschool.com