Claude Watson School for the Arts

We Feature

Specialized Arts Programming

Claude Watson School for the Arts offers sequential instruction in Dance, Drama, Music and Visual Arts alongside a comprehensive academic program. Students develop artistic skills, creativity and confidence through specialized instruction and opportunities to create, perform and exhibit their work. Our educators bring professional qualifications and artistic experience, complemented by visiting artists. Through purposeful practice, assessment and feedback, students develop their individual artistic voices and pursue excellence in the arts and academics.

The Claude Watson School for the Arts moved into its new quarters near Yonge and Sheppard in September of 2006. The 50,000 square foot building provides conventional class rooms, music rooms, a dance studio, drama room, art rooms, gymnasium and a multi purpose room. Academic classrooms are located on the third floor and are brightly coloured with ample natural light. All learning spaces are very well appointed and resources include audio visual equipment, lighting and sound equipment, I.T. in every room and appropriate furniture to enhance the delivery of both the arts and academic programs.

Claude Watson School for the Arts's Mission Statement

Arts Hearts & Minds

Claude Watson School for the Arts is a specialized program spanning Grades 4 - 8. CWSA offers an enriched arts education for students within the City of Toronto who have an interest in music, drama, dance, and the visual arts. Students pursue studies in all four arts disciplines. The goals of the school are to enrich and accelerate aesthetic development; to stimulate creativity and original thinking; and to create an enduring respect and passion for learning within a climate of artistic and academic excellence. The school program links with artistic resources in the community, maximizing the growth of the student through exposure to practising artists.

Claude Watson School for the Arts is a Grades 4–8 specialized arts school welcoming students from across Toronto. Admission is administered centrally by the TDSB through the Central Student Interest Programs (CSIP) application and selection process. Families are invited to attend our fall information evening to learn about the program and admissions requirements. Students follow the Ontario curriculum while participating in specialized instruction in Dance, Drama, Music and Visual Arts. The integration of academic and artistic learning encourages creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and dedication. Our school celebrates the diverse talents and accomplishments of our students.

Holistic Education

Holistic education at Claude Watson School for the Arts recognizes that intellectual, artistic, social and personal development are interconnected. Students are encouraged to explore ideas, think independently, express themselves and learn through inquiry, creativity and collaboration. High expectations, meaningful challenges and supportive relationships foster confidence, resilience, self-discipline and well-being. By nurturing individual strengths and encouraging curiosity, empathy and a lifelong appreciation for learning, our program supports the development of the whole student.

More Information About Claude Watson School for the Arts

Literacy

CWSA students demonstrate strong literacy achievement through rigorous academic learning enriched by the arts. Reading, writing, oral communication and critical literacy are developed through inquiry, discussion and creative expression. Students interpret diverse texts, evaluate evidence and communicate their ideas with clarity, confidence and originality.

Numeracy

Mathematics is an area of strength at CWSA. From Grades 4 to 8, students deepen their understanding of numbers, algebra, geometry, data and mathematical relationships. Increasingly complex investigations encourage logical reasoning, analytical thinking and the application of mathematics, providing a strong foundation for secondary school studies in math and science.

Pathways

Claude Watson students excel in many areas and our graduates select a variety of programs at the Secondary level. Many choose to stay with the Arts yet a significant number determine to pursue full academic programs such as I.B., or specialized maths and science programs where they continue to use creative problem solving skills.

Community, Culture and Caring

Opportunities to give back to the community at large form a significant component of the lives of students, staff and parents. Student performance groups respond to many requests to support social agencies and activities. In addition our students participate in a variety of Clubs and organizations helping with fund raising and donations.

Additional Features

Enriched Arts Curriculum
Extra-curricular Activitites
Sports and Athletics opportunities
Green Schools Initiatives

Student Life - Where You Belong

GO TEAM

Students at CWSA have many opportunities to become involved in activities relating to the Arts, academics and athletics. There is a Student Council as well as a student graduation committee. In addition students participate in social justice activities through which they commit to many worthwhile social causes. Extra-curricular activities provide extended learning opportunities in all arts disciplines. These groups and clubs often become involved in competitions and performances beyond the regular program thereby providing experiences that both stimulate and challenge the students who participate. This includes a variety of dance groups, musical groups both instrumental and vocal, as well as drama groups.

WHAT SETS US APART

Claude Watson School for the Arts offers a distinctive educational experience that brings together academic excellence and specialized instruction in Dance, Drama, Music and Visual Arts. Students learn from dedicated educators with artistic qualifications and professional experience, developing their skills through sustained practice, creative exploration and collaboration. Visiting artists and arts professionals enrich learning by connecting students with the wider artistic community. Performances, exhibitions and other opportunities to share their work encourage confidence, discipline and artistic growth. Our program fosters critical thinking, student voice, creativity and high expectations, preparing students to approach new challenges with curiosity, independence and imagination.

PARENT AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Claude Watson School for the Arts values strong partnerships among families, staff, students and the wider community. Our School Council provides opportunities for parents and caregivers to contribute ideas, participate in school discussions and support initiatives that enrich student learning and well-being. Families contribute through volunteering, school events, performances, exhibitions and fundraising activities that support educational and artistic opportunities. Partnerships with arts organizations, visiting artists and community members further enrich our program and connect students with the wider artistic community. Together, these contributions strengthen relationships, celebrate student achievement and foster a welcoming, engaged school community.