Trinity College School - Review #3

My time at Trinity was so special. I spent four years there in both day and boarding programs, and I am so grateful for that opportunity. Beyond academic rigour and stellar athletics and arts programs, I'll never forget my first day of Grade 9, looking up in Osler Hall and seeing some forty flags hanging from the ceiling. Around me was this incredible mini United Nations of kids and I felt like the luckiest person in the world. My exposure at such a young age to a diverse, multi-cultural, multi-lingual student body taught me understanding and compassion and opened my heart to the beauty of our differences. To that end, if I am to answer whether or not I feel that the school prepared me well for my life's next steps - that I currently work in humanitarian diplomacy among the 'real' United Nations in some of the most challenging countries in the world should be evidence enough. Prospective students should expect to find a community that will become their extended family. They'll find caring teachers and coaches, unlikely friendships that will span a lifetime and the most beautiful campus in Ontario.

The best thing that happened to me at TCS was discovering a supportive, global community that shaped my personal and professional growth. I learned independence, resilience, and empathy while building lifelong friendships.

If I could go back, I would immerse myself even more in different extracurriculars from the beginning, to maximize opportunities for growth and exploration. My advice for incoming students is to get involved, be open to new experiences, and embrace the diverse community and you’ll grow in ways you can’t yet imagine.

What I loved most was the sense of belonging and support. TCS felt like a home away from home, where teachers, staff, and peers were genuinely invested in your growth. The combination of rigorous academics, strong arts and athletics programs, and a tight-knit, diverse community made it a truly exceptional experience.

Take full advantage of every opportunity at TCS like join sports, participate in arts, volunteer, and don’t be afraid to explore your passions. My favorite spot on campus was Osler Hall, with its incredible ceiling of international flags, it reminded me daily of the global community I was part of. Boarding students will feel at home in their dorms, and each house has a unique character worth exploring.

The academics at TCS were challenging and rewarding. I loved that the school offered a breadth of programs to fit different abilities and interests, from advanced sciences and humanities to languages and arts. Teachers pushed me to take Advanced Placement courses and explore subjects outside my comfort zone, which helped me build a strong academic foundation for university. I appreciated the balance between classroom learning and independent study, as it prepared me for the self-directed environment of higher education. The teachers were passionate, approachable, and genuinely invested in students’ growth, often offering extra help or guidance beyond class hours. This combination of academic rigor and support made learning both motivating and enjoyable.

Athletics were an integral part of TCS life. The school offered a wide variety of sports, and participation was highly encouraged for all students. I appreciated the quality of coaching, which went beyond teaching skills to building character, teamwork, and resilience. Competitive sports like basketball and field hockey provided intense challenges, while recreational opportunities allowed students to stay active without pressure. One thing that stood out was the sense of camaraderie across teams and houses; no matter the sport, students supported one another and celebrated achievements together.

TCS provided an exceptional arts program. The facilities for music, theatre, and visual arts were top-notch, and the teaching staff were experienced and enthusiastic. I particularly enjoyed being part of the brass band and participating in school productions, where collaboration across grades helped foster strong bonds. The school encouraged students to explore their artistic talents seriously, whether through formal classes, performances, or independent projects. This commitment to the arts made it easy to pursue creative passions alongside academic and athletic interests.

Beyond sports and arts, TCS offered abundant extracurricular opportunities. I volunteered for Amnesty International, led student-led social justice programs, and participated in service trips abroad. The school emphasized developing well-rounded students, so whether your interest was community service, environmental initiatives, or debate, there was a way to get involved. These activities taught me time management, leadership, and empathy, and they helped me build a network of friends and mentors across different grades and backgrounds.

Dorm life at TCS was warm and supportive. My house felt like a second family, with older boarders helping new students adjust. Room setups were comfortable, and there were shared common spaces where students could study, socialize, or relax. Housemasters were approachable and always available for guidance, which made boarding life secure and nurturing. Even on weekends, the dorm provided opportunities for socializing and organized events that strengthened our sense of community.

Dining at TCS was a highlight of daily life. Meals were nutritious, varied, and served in a welcoming cafeteria environment. The kitchen staff were kind and approachable, and there were always options for different dietary needs. The cafeteria became a social hub where students could connect between classes, share experiences, and enjoy a sense of community over meals.

TCS is located in Port Hope, a charming small town about an hour outside Toronto. The town offered a safe and quiet environment, perfect for students to focus on studies while still enjoying leisurely activities like walking along Lake Ontario, exploring local shops, or grabbing a coffee downtown. On weekends, students could take trains to Toronto for a city experience, which added a unique balance of quiet campus life and urban accessibility.

Social life at TCS was engaging and inclusive. House events, inter-house competitions, and school-wide activities provided constant opportunities to interact with students from different grades and backgrounds. Friendships developed quickly, and the small student body meant everyone had the chance to find a community where they belonged. The school culture emphasized kindness, collaboration, and mutual respect, which created a welcoming social environment.