General School Information

Q: Is Pretty River Academy a private school in the Blue Mountains?

A: Pretty River Academy is an independent school located in Collingwood, Ontario, serving the Blue Mountains region. As a not-for-profit independent school and Canadian-registered charity celebrating our 25th anniversary, we offer personalized education with small class sizes from preschool through Grade 8.

Q: What makes Pretty River Academy different from other private schools in Ontario?

A: As an independent school in the Blue Mountains area, PRA offers exceptional small class sizes, personalized learning approaches, and comprehensive programs including academics, athletics, and arts. Our unique location in Collingwood provides access to outdoor learning opportunities and supports elite athletes with flexible scheduling.

Q: How long has Pretty River Academy been serving families in the Blue Mountains?

A: Pretty River Academy is currently celebrating our 25th anniversary, having served families in Collingwood and the Blue Mountains region since 1999. Our longevity demonstrates our commitment to providing quality independent education.

Admissions and Enrollment

Q: What grade levels does this Blue Mountains independent school offer?

A: Pretty River Academy serves students from preschool (30 months) through Grade 8, including Junior Kindergarten, Senior Kindergarten, Primary Division (Grades 1-2), Junior Division (Grades 3-5), and Intermediate Division (Grades 6-8).

Q: What are the tuition fees for this independent school in Collingwood?

A: For 2025-2026, tuition is $22,250 for Grades 1-8 and $20,000 for JK/SK. Preschool is $1,550 monthly for full-day, 5 days per week. There's a one-time new student registration fee of $1,500. As a not-for-profit school, we're committed to making quality education accessible.

Q: Does Pretty River Academy accept students mid-year?

A: Yes, we welcome new families throughout the year, subject to space availability. Our small class sizes ensure each student receives personalized attention when joining our school community.

Academic Programs

Q: What teaching approach does this Blue Mountains school use?

A: PRA uses evidence-based teaching methods including the Science of Reading and Structured Literacy for language arts, inquiry-based learning, and experiential education. Our programs emphasize literacy, numeracy, social sciences, and specialist instruction in Science, Physical Education, Art, Music, and French.

Q: How small are the class sizes at this independent school?

A: We maintain very small class sizes throughout all divisions. In preschool, we have one teacher for every eight students. Our small class environment ensures each student is "seen and known for who they are and what they bring to the table."

Q: Does Pretty River Academy follow the Ontario curriculum?

A: Yes, our programs align with Ontario curriculum expectations while offering enhanced, personalized learning experiences. We teach all core subjects including Math, Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, French, Art, Music, and Physical Education.

Q: What makes the middle school program special at this Blue Mountains school?

A: Our Intermediate Division (Grades 6-8) features a daily Advisory Program focusing on soft skills and executive functioning, a full rotary program with specialist teachers, and unique programs like media arts taught by award-winning local artist Steve White.

Specialized Programs and Support

Q: Does this Collingwood school support elite athletes?

A: Yes! Located in Collingwood, a hub for skiing, cycling, sailing, and horseback riding, PRA provides tailored educational plans and flexible scheduling for competitive athletes. Our teachers offer academic support before and after school to accommodate training schedules.

Q: What preschool programs are available at this Blue Mountains independent school?

A: Our preschool serves children from 30 months (toilet-trained) with inquiry-based, hands-on learning. Children enjoy one teacher per eight students, art/music/French instruction by PRA teachers, fresh meals prepared on-site, and learning guided by Belonging, Well-Being, Engagement, and Expression.

Q: What co-curricular activities does Pretty River Academy offer?

A: We offer extensive co-curriculars including Academic Clinics, PRA Peaks athletics (soccer, cross country, basketball, volleyball, track & field), Junior Peaks for younger students, various clubs (coding, drama, chess, Lego, cooking, karate, hip hop dance), and after-care until 5:30 pm.

School Community and Culture

Q: What is the school community like at this Blue Mountains independent school?

A: PRA has a small, close-knit community where families are engaged partners in school life. Our Head of School, Valerie J. Turner, MEd, emphasizes that "our students are seen and known for who they are." We foster an inclusive environment where children develop confidence, find their voices, and learn to make a positive impact.

Q: How does Pretty River Academy prepare students for high school?

A: Our comprehensive program develops critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills. Students graduate as "quick-witted and divergent thinkers" well-prepared for secondary education. Our Middle School Advisory Program specifically helps students develop executive functioning and soft skills.

Q: What learning opportunities exist outside the classroom at this Collingwood school?

A: Our extraordinary location on 40 acres of green space rich in biodiversity provides unique outdoor learning experiences in our outdoor classrooms and local hiking trails. Students engage with contemporary, socially relevant issues and real-world problem-solving. We emphasize experiential learning that extends beyond traditional classroom walls, taking full advantage of our Blue Mountains location.

Practical Information

Q: Where exactly is Pretty River Academy located in the Blue Mountains area?

A: Pretty River Academy is located in Collingwood, Ontario, perfectly positioned to serve families throughout the Blue Mountains region. Our location provides access to excellent outdoor recreation and athletic training facilities.

Q: Does this independent school offer meals and nutrition programs?

A: Yes, we prepare fresh meals on-site daily. Our preschool program includes family-style dining that teaches healthy eating habits and builds community. [Note: More details would be available from the food program page that couldn't be accessed]

Q: What makes families choose Pretty River Academy over other Blue Mountains area schools?

A: Families choose PRA for our proven 25-year track record, exceptional small class sizes, personalized learning approach, strong academic programs, comprehensive co-curriculars, support for elite athletes, and tight-knit community atmosphere. As parent Kate Riddell shares, "The primary teachers did more than teach my children math and reading — they fostered an inclusive community where my kids gained confidence and learned about the world around them."

Q: How can I learn more about this Blue Mountains independent school?

A: We encourage you to visit our campus in Collingwood to meet our students and experience our community firsthand. As our Head of School notes, you'll find our students to be "quick-witted and divergent thinkers who keenly embrace the challenge of sharing what they are learning."