Trinity College School - Review #2

Trinity College School taught me to always strive to be a better person, both inside and outside the classroom. The school places great emphasis on values, community, and ethics, and these lessons become part of everyday life as a student. As a boarder, I especially appreciated how much academic support was available as teachers always set aside time for extra help in subjects like math, science, and English, which gave me confidence. But what really stood out was how kind and welcoming every member of staff was, from the kitchen team to the faculty. The food was excellent, and the atmosphere in the dining hall was as warm as being at home. If I had to describe TCS in one word, it would be wonderful. You never stop learning at TCS, not just in academics, but in friendships, teamwork, and life.

The best part of my boarding school experience was the personal growth I achieved. I became more independent, learned to manage my time, and built confidence in myself. I also made lifelong friends from all over the world, which broadened my perspective.

If I could do one thing differently, it would be to try even more activities earlier on. My advice for new students is don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. There’s something for everyone at TCS, and the more you try, the richer your experience will be.

What I liked most about TCS was the balance. The school didn’t just focus on academics, it gave equal importance to community, extracurriculars, and personal growth. Everywhere you turned, there was support, whether it came from a teacher, a coach, a dorm parent, or a fellow student. That sense of being cared for made TCS feel like home.

Incoming students should remember that TCS has endless opportunities. Don’t be shy about trying something new whether it’s a sport, a club, or a creative project. My favorite snack was the warm cookies in the dining hall, and my favorite places on campus were the common rooms, where I spent countless hours with friends. As for dorms, each one has its own personality, but no matter where you are placed, you’ll find your community.

Academics at TCS were outstanding. What I loved most was the variety and flexibility of courses whether it was math, science, history, or languages, there were always options that fit your interests and abilities. For example, there were multiple levels for subjects like math and French, which allowed students to learn at their own pace. The teachers were not just experts in their fields but also approachable mentors. In science, we did a lot of hands-on experiments to bring concepts to life. In history, one of the highlights was the Travel Ed program, where students had the chance to explore historic sites in Europe. Academics never felt like just memorizing facts but they were about connecting what we learned to real life.

Sports at TCS were a big part of student life and helped bring the community together. I wasn’t really athletic, but I found that there was something for everyone. There were competitive teams for those who wanted to push themselves, and there were also opportunities to participate more casually. Coaches weren’t just focused on performance; they also emphasized teamwork, discipline, and personal growth. What impressed me most was how teachers often doubled as coaches, so they knew you as a whole person in the classroom and on the field. That created a sense of support and respect.

Even though I wasn’t deeply involved in the arts, I always admired how much TCS valued creativity. Students had opportunities to explore painting, music, or theatre, and the facilities were impressive. I personally had the chance to take piano lessons through an arrangement the school made with an outside instructor, even though it wasn’t a formal course offering. That flexibility showed how much TCS supports students’ passions, even if they fall outside the standard curriculum. The arts community was very welcoming, and even if you weren’t in a class or production, you were encouraged to attend performances and support your friends.

Extracurricular life at TCS was rich and diverse. You could join athletic teams, arts programs, academic clubs, or volunteer groups. What stood out most to me was how the school supported student initiatives. If a club didn’t already exist, you could create one, and the administration would help you get it started. That’s how my reading circle grew into a small student club. Volunteer work was also encouraged and gave me the chance to contribute to the broader community, not just within the school walls.

Dorm life was one of the highlights of TCS. Each house had a master (or dorm parent) who acted like a mentor and was always available if we needed guidance. Living with boarders from around the world felt like having a group of siblings so you were never alone. Rooms were cozy and the dorm common areas were always lively. On weekends, boarders had the freedom to explore town or take trips into Toronto. The dorms were structured enough to keep us safe, but flexible enough to give us independence. That balance made boarding life both supportive and fun.

The dining experience at TCS was better than I expected when I first arrived. The cafeteria staff were incredibly kind and took the time to get to know us. Meals were varied and of good quality, with options that reflected different tastes and dietary needs. My favorite part was how the dining hall became a social place, it wasn’t just about eating, but about connecting with friends. I’ll never forget the cookies, which always tasted homemade and became a small comfort after a busy day.

The town surrounding TCS was charming and safe, which made it easy to explore. On weekends, we would go into town for meals, to visit shops, or even to relax at the nail salon. Having Toronto just a train ride away was also a huge benefit, it gave us access to big city experiences, but we could still return to the comfort of our campus by evening. That balance of small-town charm and city accessibility made the location ideal.

Social life at TCS was very inclusive. When you first arrived, you were paired with a “big buddy,” which made it much easier to adjust. There was always something happening from formal events to informal hangouts in the common rooms. The relationships I built with other students were some of the most meaningful parts of my experience. Boarders and day students mixed naturally, and many day students even invited boarders to their homes for holidays or breaks. That generosity made me feel like I had a second family in Canada.