With strong academic performance, diverse programs (including French immersion and faith-based education), and supportive communities, Guelph’s schools are a major reason many families choose to call this city home.

Elementary & Middle Schools

Guelph has a robust selection of public and private elementary schools across the city, serving diverse neighbourhoods and learning styles. Most are part of the Upper Grand District School Board (UGDSB), which operates dozens of schools in Guelph and the surrounding area. 

Here are some key schools and where they’re located:

Public Elementary Schools

• John McCrae Public School – Historic school in the heart of downtown Guelph (Old University/Dovercliffe area). Popular for academics and community involvement.
• Rickson Ridge Public School – South end school with strong programs including French immersion options.
• Victory Public School – Located in Exhibition Park, a friendly, central neighbourhood.
• Sir Isaac Brock Public School – East Guelph school with modern facilities and community support.
• Guelph Lake Public School – North-central location near residential communities.
• Willow Road Public School – Established neighbourhood elementary option.
• King George Public School, Paisley Road Public School, Central Public School, June Avenue Public School, Fred A. Hamilton Public School, and Jean Little Public School are all well-distributed across Guelph, offering neighbourhood education options close to homes and parks.

Catholic Elementary Schools

Guelph offers a welcoming and active Catholic school community through the Wellington Catholic District School Board (WCDSB), with numerous elementary schools serving families looking for faith-based education rooted in strong academics, values, and community spirit. 



• St. Paul Catholic School – Serves JK–Grade 8 in the South End (Westminster East/Clairfields), known for top ratings and a close-knit community. 
• St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic School – Also in the South End, offering a supportive environment and strong academic programs. 
• St. Joseph Catholic School – Central Guelph location with a welcoming learning experience. 
• St. John Catholic School - Guelph – Positioned on Victoria Road North, serving families across central and north Guelph. 
• Sacred Heart Catholic School – Downtown-area Catholic school ideal for neighbourhood families. 
• Holy Rosary Catholic School – Located on Stevenson Street North, known for its community feel. 
• Holy Trinity Catholic School – Found on Grange Road, serving diverse families across the east-central part of Guelph. 
• St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School – Situated on Imperial Road South, welcoming students from south-central neighbourhoods. 
• St. Patrick Catholic School – On Victoria Road North, this school serves the North End and surrounding communities. 
• St. Michael Catholic School – Located on McElderry Road, with a focus on academic excellence and community values. 
• Mary Phelan Catholic School – In the Kortright Hills/Old University area, another great option for families seeking neighbourhood Catholic schooling. 

Other Options

• St John Bosco Catholic School – A Catholic option in Guelph’s older downtown neighbourhood. 
• Elementary School Catholic Saint‑René‑Goupil – French-language Catholic elementary school (Conseil scolaire catholique MonAvenir), offering a francophone Catho
• Trillium Waldorf School – Independent Waldorf-style program with a holistic approach to learning.
• Guelph Community Christian School – Faith-based education located near downtown Guelph.
• Westwood Public School and Mitchell Woods Public School – Neighbourhood options with active community involvement.

Many elementary schools also offer French immersion programs, which are especially popular and often influence real estate decisions due to demand for those catchment areas.

High Schools & Secondary Options

For families with older children, Guelph also has strong secondary schools:

Guelph’s Public High Schools include:

• Guelph Collegiate Vocational Institute (GCVI) – One of the city’s oldest and most established high schools, located near downtown Guelph. 
• Centennial Collegiate Vocational Institute – Large public high school offering Advanced Placement and specialized programs on the north side of the city. 
• John F. Ross Collegiate Vocational Institute – Another major public high school serving students from across Guelph. 
• College Heights Secondary School – Smaller secondary school with personalized programs.

Catholic High Schools:

• Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic High School – Catholic secondary option serving grades 9–12 with strong community involvement. 
• Bishop Macdonell Catholic High School – Historic Catholic high school with an International Baccalaureate track.

Post-Secondary: University of Guelph

Beyond K-12 education, Guelph is home to the University of Guelph, a major Canadian university known for excellence in research, agriculture, science, technology, and arts programs. Its campus is a cultural and academic hub that enriches local life and attracts students from around the world.

What This Means for Families & Home Buyers

School locations matter — and in Guelph, many families choose homes based on proximity to a preferred school catchment area. Whether it’s downtown living near John McCrae PS and GCVI, family-oriented neighbourhoods around Rickson Ridge and Centennial CVI, or quiet residential streets near Willow Road, there’s a school and community vibe for nearly every lifestyle.

Guelph’s strong overall school performance — with test scores often above the national average — also contributes to its appeal for long-term family planning.