History:
In the 19th century, the intersection of St. Clair and Victoria Park was home to a small village named Moffat’s Corners, and the rest of the region was rural. Clairlea was one of the first parts of Scarborough to be developed as a Toronto suburb, being transformed in the early 1950s. A major employer and landmark are Providence Healthcare, established on St. Clair in 1962. Today, it consists of a hospital specializing in rehabilitation and complex continuing care, a nursing home called the Cardinal Ambrozic Houses of Providence, and Providence Community Centre, which offers clinics and support programs for seniors and caregivers. Today it is a middle-income neighborhood that features many affordable homes and mature streets.
Overview:
Clairlea is a quiet, middle-income neighborhood that features well-treed streets and affordable homes. This is an ideal neighborhood for commuters as it is well served by public transit and is also within proximity to the Don Valley Parkway. Clairlea’s major landmark is Warden Woods and the Taylor-Massey Creek which form a deep ravine valley that spans the south-east perimeter of this neighborhood. The Warden Woods Ravine parkland has a paved trail that offers Clairlea residents a bit of nature close to home.
The mural on the underpass just east of Warden Station pays homage to the area’s historical roots. The north wall, seen above, honors the significant contribution made by women working in the local ammunition plant during the Second World War. The south wall showcases the local area’s unique history and pays tribute to its past as Scarborough Junction.
Clairlea-Birchmount is a neighborhood that’s home to many families but recently we’re seeing more young couples move into the area, attracted by the many great opportunities for homeownership in the form of well-maintained bungalows on large lots that offer a lot of potentials.
There are about 10 public green spaces nearby for residents to check out, including St. Clair Ravine and Warden Woods Park, and they are especially well-distributed, making them very easy to access. A large portion of Clairlea-Birchmount is taken up by shopping centers, the Eglinton Square indoor shopping center, and other large retail developments along what was once Scarborough’s old Golden Mile of Industry on Eglinton.
Homes:
In the 19th century, the intersection of St. Clair and Victoria Park was home to a small village named Moffat’s Corners, and the rest of the region was rural. Clairlea was one of the first parts of Scarborough to be developed as a Toronto suburb, being transformed in the early 1950s. Today it is a middle-income neighborhood that features many affordable homes and mature streets.
Clairlea’s original housing stock dates from the 1940s and ’50s. The style of houses found here includes small bungalows, modest storey-and-a-half houses, and two-storey, detached houses. The streets north of St. Clair have a curvilinear street pattern and the houses are fairly uniform in style. The residential pocket south of St. Clair features a steep hill topography and smaller, older houses. The new Warden Woods Ravine subdivision situated south off St. Clair Avenue offers a collection of new townhouses, semi-detached, and detached family-style houses.
Lifestyle:
The Warden Power Centre located at the north-east corner of St.Clair and Warden Avenues is a modern-day shopping center that contains “Big Box” retail chain stores including Winners, Future Shop, and Hy & Zels. Victoria Park contains a limited amount of shops, and a good variety of restaurants including Chinese, Mediterranean, Caribbean, and East and West Indian foods.
Recreation
Warden Woods Park is a heavily wooded ravine valley containing a paved trail frequented by nature enthusiasts, joggers, and cyclists. Access points to this park are located off St. Clair and Pharmacy Avenues. To the south of Warden Woods Park is Byng Park and the West Scarborough N.C.C., which features a bocce club and horseshoe pits.
The Demonia Park Golf Course is located on the east side of Victoria Park Avenue, just north of Danforth Avenue, is a challenging scenic course that is ideal for beginners and advanced players looking to practice their short game.
The Warden Woods Power Center is situated off Warden Avenue has a Cineplex movie theatre with eight screens that feature all the latest movie releases.
The new Warden Hilltop Community Centre is the first public building in Toronto to be LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Silver certified featuring a geothermal heating and cooling system, green roof, and solar power. The center includes a double gym, weight room, teaching kitchen, and preschool area.
Shops and Services in Clairlea
A major employer and landmark are Providence Healthcare, established on St. Clair in 1962. Today, it consists of a hospital specializing in rehabilitation and complex continuing care, a nursing home called the Cardinal Ambrozic Houses of Providence, and Providence Community Centre, which offers clinics and support programs for seniors and caregivers.
Daycares and schools are easy to walk to from any location in this part of the city. In addition to public schools, there are private primary and high schools. Concerning food, it is straightforward to access the nearest grocery store on foot from any home in Clairlea-Birchmount. Additionally, there are a good number of options for those who care about nearby restaurants and cafes. It is also a reasonably short walk to a decent choice of clothing stores.
Major shopping centres are easlily accessible in the Clairlea-Birchmount neighbourhood. The indoor shopping centre at Eglinton Square and Warden Power Centre are where you can find many big-box retail chain stores, in addition to smaller independent shops of all kinds. Every culture is represented by way of the many small restaurants and food joints in the area – it’s no wonder that Scarborough was hailed as the “best ethnic food suburb”!
The best part – Future Developments
Plans have been proposed to redevelop Eglinton Square into a major mixed-use site, complete with both commercial and residential space. These plans are still in their early stages, but if realized, they will give new life to the area through revitalization and add greater appeal to this neighbourhood.
Once complete, the Eglinton Crosstown light-rail line will surely bring even more residential and mixed-use development to the area – property values are already appreciating in anticipation of the new transit line and other pending developments. We look forward to seeing all these exciting changes in the neighborhood!
Transportation in Clairlea
Bus routes along Warden, Pharmacy, Victoria Park and St. Clair Avenues connect passengers to stations on the Bloor-Danforth subway line. Motorists are just a few minutes from the Don Valley Parkway on-ramp, situated off Eglinton Avenue, west of Victoria Park.
Schools
Clairlea-Birchmount has 12 Public schools, 7 Catholic schools, and 1 Private school in this neighborhood, your kids can get a great education.
PUBLIC SCHOOL
Birchmount Park Collegiate Institute
Birchmount Park Collegiate Institute
Address: 3663 Danforth Ave, Scarborough, ON M1N 3J7, Canada | Telephone: (416) 396-6704 | Fax: (416) 396-6759 | Email: Birchmount@tdsb.on.ca
“Birchmount Park Collegiate Institute is truly a community school, benefiting from the superb sports facilities that surround it and our partnership with Variety Village. We offer a full range of courses at the LDCC, applied, academic, gifted, open, college, university and workplace levels which support all post-secondary pathways. We are proud of the diversity of courses we offer our students. The whole school is Wi-Fi accessible and we continue to expand the use of technology across all subject areas. We support and encourage students to take responsibility for their own learning, to strive for excellence, to take pride in their accomplishments and to develop their leadership skills in the broader school community.” As originally published by Birchmount Park Collegiate Institute
Collège français secondaire
Address: 100 Carlton St, Toronto, ON M5B 1M3, Canada | Telephone: 416 393-0175
”Le Collège français sera un milieu de vie stimulant pour tes amis et toi. Toute une équipe est là, chaque jour, pour t’aider à découvrir de nouveaux horizons et à mieux comprendre le monde qui t’entoure.” As originally published by Collège français secondaire
É Élém Jeanne-Lajoie
Address: 150 Carnforth Rd, North York, ON M4A 2H6, Canada | Telephone: 416 397-2080
“L’éducation des enfants se fait grâce à une alliance école, famille et communauté. Le travail en équipe et la création de partenariats solides sont essentiels pour s’assurer que les élèves réalisent leur plein potentiel. Ensemble, nous pouvons les accompagner à devenir des citoyens engagés et responsables contribuant à l’essor de notre société. Soyez assurés que l’équipe de Jeanne-Lajoie s’engage à offrir un milieu éducatif enrichissant, inclusif et bienveillant à vos enfants.” As originally published by É Élém Jeanne-Lajoie
Clairlea Public School
Address: 25 Rosalind Crescent, Scarborough, ON M1L 2B2, Canada | Telephone: (416) 396-6165 | Fax: (416) 396-6948 | Email: Clairlea@tdsb.on.ca
“Clairlea Public School, located on Rosalind Crescent in Scarborough, first opened in 1952. In September 2002, the French Immersion program from Kindergarten to Grade 8 was introduced. We offer the unique opportunity of early French Immersion to interested Senior Kindergarten students and their families. We strive to enable all students to reach high levels of achievement and to acquire the knowledge, skills and values needed to become responsible members of society. We are committed to providing a learning environment that is safe, nurturing, positive and respectful. This is enabled through the active involvement of our students, staff, parents and community.” As originally published by Clairlea Public School
Danforth Gardens Public School
Danforth Gardens Public School
Address: 20 Santamonica Blvd, Scarborough, ON M1L, Canada | Telephone: (416) 396-6190 | Fax: (416) 396-6193 | Email: DanforthGardens@tdsb.on.ca
“Danforth Gardens P.S. is located in an established neighborhood adjacent to the Albert Campbell Public Library, Danforth Gardens Park and a shopping plaza. We have over 575 JK to grade 8 students and a dedicated staff of 40. At Danforth Gardens P.S. staff, students, parents and the community are committed to working together to provide a well balanced experience for all students. We value this partnership and its importance in creating a learning environment that is safe, nurturing, positive and respectful.” As originally published by Danforth Gardens Public School
General Brock Public School
Address: 140 Chestnut Crescent, Scarborough, ON M1L 1Y5, Canada | Telephone: (416) 396-6250 | Fax: (416) 396-6254 | Email: GeneralBrock@tdsb.on.ca
“General Brock Public School is located on the north side of Chestnut Crescent, west of Birchmount and north of St. Clair Avenue East. It first opened in 1956 and was named after Sir Isaac Brock. General Brock Public School is committed to developing self-motivated students with the academic and social skills needed to embrace the challenges of today and tomorrow. It is our responsibility to provide opportunities for the development of the whole child academically, physically, socially and emotionally. General Brock staff believe that parents/guardians are our partners in education and we value ongoing communication so that together we may provide the best possible learning environment for each child.” As originally published by General Brock Public School
Regent Heights Public School
Address: 555 Pharmacy Ave, Scarborough, ON M1L 3H1, Canada | Telephone: (416) 396-6535 | Fax: (416) 396-6537 | Email: Regent@tdsb.on.ca
“Regent Heights Public School began in October 1921 as a frame portable on the east side of Bexhill Avenue on rented property. Known as Regent’s Park at that time, the school was really an annex to Oakridge School. Since then, the school location has changed twice and there have been many renovations and expansions to keep up with the increasing student population. We have been in the existing two-storey building, which began as a four-room facility, since September 1947. Today we are a vibrant school housing Kindergarten to Grade 8.” As originally published by Regent Heights Public School
Robert Service Senior Public School
Robert Service Senior Public School
Address: 945 Danforth Rd, Scarborough, ON M1K 1J2, Canada | Telephone: (416) 396-6540 | Fax: ((416) 396-3287 | Email: RobertService@tdsb.on.ca
“Robert Service Senior Public School serves grade 7 and 8 students. Our small size enables us to create a safe and caring environment conducive to learning. Our students receive a well-planned curriculum in specially equipped rooms, such as science, music, gym and art. Literacy and numeracy continue to be given special attention. Our co-curricular program offers a vast array of clubs and activities including house league and interschool sports, yearbook club, equity student committee and art club. We have a very active ESP leadership group and a student council, whose leadership is appreciated by the staff and students. Our school has been a vital part of our community since 1971.” As originally published by Robert Service Senior Public School
J. G. Workman Public School
Address: 487 Birchmount Rd, Scarborough, ON M1K 1N7, Canada | Telephone: (416) 396-6365 | Fax: (416) 396-6339 | Email: JGWorkman@tdsb.on.ca
“J.G. Workman Public School is located on the southeast corner of Birchmount Road and Danforth Road. The school was first opened in 1949 and was named after the Chairman of the Scarborough Collegiate Board at that time. This neighborhood school serves approximately 210 students representing various language groups and countries. J.G. Workman Public School offers regular programs from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8, as well as Junior and Intermediate M.I.D. (Mild Intellectual Disability) Classes. We also offer a full-day early learning program for Kindergarten.” As originally published by J. G. Workman Public School
Norman Cook Junior Public School
Norman Cook Junior Public School
Address: 725 Danforth Rd, Scarborough, ON M1K 1G4, Canada | Telephone: (416) 396-6485 | Fax: (416) 396-8547 | Email: NormanCook@tdsb.on.ca
“Norman Cook Junior Public School was opened in 1953 and was named after Norman Cook, a prominent early settler of Scarborough, who served as a school trustee from 1931-1943. Our school is located in a busy city area known as “Scarborough Junction”. The school population is drawn from a mixed socio-economic population with diverse backgrounds. A significant number of out of area students attend Norman Cook school because of the on-site daycare facilities and the small school atmosphere. We serve the needs of approximately 150 Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6 students.” As originally published by Norman Cook Junior Public School
Taylor Creek Public School
Address: 644 Warden Ave, Scarborough, ON M1L 3Z3, Canada | Telephone: (416) 396-6625 | Fax: (416) 396-6649 | Email: Warden@tdsb.on.ca
“Built in 1952, Taylor Creek Public School has a long history of providing excellent programs to a well-established community. The school is located on Warden Avenue, south of St. Clair Avenue and north of Danforth Road. The neighborhood surrounding our school is home to a very diverse population. The school serves 382 pupils. We have computers in every classroom, including tablets, iPads, and netbooks. A Parenting Centre and the Warden Woods satellite (City of Toronto) day care center are housed in the school building.” As originally published by Taylor Creek Public School
SATEC @ W. A. Porter Collegiate Institute
SATEC @ W. A. Porter Collegiate Institute
Address: 40 Fairfax Crescent, Scarborough, ON M1L, Canada | Telephone: (416) 396-3365 | Fax:(416) 396-3371 | Email: SATEC@tdsb.on.ca
“SATEC @ W.A. Porter CI is the Scarborough Academy for Technological, Environmental and Computer Education, a school with a specialized program for students who want to be successful citizens of the 21st century. SATEC offers an innovative program that combines rigorous academics with in-depth applications of technology, computer and environmental studies. SATEC provides a climate for structured and accountable learning with high academic and citizenship expectations for all students, including student uniforms and adherence to a code of behavior. The curriculum stresses the importance of study skills, ethics, and personal accountability. We offer exciting leadership opportunities with an extensive array of school organizations.” As originally published by SATEC @ W. A. Porter Collegiate Institute
CATHOLIC AND PRIVATE SCHOOL
Khairul Ummah School
Address: 25 Civic Rd, Scarborough, ON M1L 2K6 | Telephone: 416.449.8624
“In today’s day and age, there is an increasing need for Muslim families to reflect on their positive contributions to society while still uplifting their religious values and beliefs. Creating an Islamic environment where children are able to learn their duties toward their Lord as well as the community at large is vital in establishing healthy societies. By the Grace of Almighty Allah, Khairul Ummah has been dedicated to providing this important environment to children everywhere. Established in 2011, what started off as a handful of students has now flourished to approximately 250 boys and girls clad in beautiful Islamic dress. The school, located at 25 Civic Road, offers classes from JK through Grade 12 with separate classrooms for boys and girls. Some facilities include a library, cafeteria, outdoor playground, and an indoor gymnasium.” As originally published by Khairul Ummah School
Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic School
Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic School
Address: 101 Birchmount Rd, Scarborough, ON M1N 3J7, Canada | Telephone: 416-393-5272 | Fax: 416-393-5567
“Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic School was opened by the Metropolitan Separate School Board (now Toronto Catholic District School Board) in April 1959. This new school relieved the overcrowding which had occurred at St. Dunstan and St. Theresa Shrine Catholic Schools during a period of rapid growth. Being adjacent to Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, it was given the same title. The Vincentian Fathers, who are responsible for the parish, honor the Blessed Virgin in a special way under the title of Immaculate Heart of Mary.” As originally published by Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic School
ÉÉC Georges-Étienne-Cartier
Address: 250 Gainsborough Rd, Toronto, ON M4L 3C6, Canada
“L’école élémentaire catholique Georges-Étienne-Cartier accueille plus de 400 élèves du jardin à la 6e année. Elle est une école dynamique caractérisée par une panoplie d’activités culturelles, pédagogiques, pastorales et communautaires où le français rayonne. Dotée d’une mission et d’une vision avant-gardistes, l’école est une communauté apprenante qui a à cœur l’éducation et l’amélioration du rendement de tous les élèves. À cet effet, plusieurs initiatives sont mises en place pour assurer le succès et l’épanouissement de tous. Le personnel œuvre dans un esprit de collaboration afin de s’outiller d’une pédagogie branchée et engageante.” As originally published by ÉÉC Georges-Étienne-Cartier
ÉÉC du Bon-Berger
Address: 343 Jones Ave, Toronto, ON M4J 1A7, Canada
“À l’école élémentaire catholique du Bon-Berger, nous nous soucions de créer un environnement où chaque élève se sent bien dans sa peau et peut donc apprendre à son plein potentiel. Nous nous assurons d’offrir aux élèves un milieu scolaire sécuritaire où la francophonie et les valeurs catholiques occupent une place importante. Nous encourageons les élèves à développer leur estime de soi, à être à l’écoute des autres, à faire preuve d’entraide et à s’engager pleinement dans toutes les facettes de leur éducation. C’est ainsi qu’ils deviennent autonomes et responsables dans leur apprentissage.” As originally published by ÉÉC du Bon-Berger
ÉSC Père-Philippe-Lamarche
Address: 2850 Eglinton Ave E, Scarborough, ON M1J, Canada | Telephone: 416-986-6414
“Notre établissement se veut un milieu d’apprentissage et de vie, où la francophonie et les valeurs humaines et religieuses prennent tout leur sens au sein de la communauté franco-ontarienne.” As originally published by ÉSC Père-Philippe-Lamarche
Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School
Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School
Address: 3176 St Clair Ave E, Scarborough, ON M1L 1V6, Canada | Telephone: 416-393-5252 | Fax: 416-393-5559
“From the youngest students in our Early Learning Program (Kindergarten) to our 14-year-old grade eight graduates, Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School strives to meet the spiritual needs of every student. While we have been created as unique individuals, our faith is the common fibre that binds us all – students, staff and parents. The staff and parents of Our Lady of Fatima are committed to nurturing a culture of high expectations.” As originally published by Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School
St. Joachim Catholic School
Address: 3395. St Clair Ave E, Scarborough, ON M1L 1W3, Canada | Telephone: 416-393-5292 | Fax:
416-397-6481
“St. Joachim Catholic School opened its doors in September 1963. Hundreds of people attended the solemn opening and blessing on December 8th, the feast of the Immaculate Conception. From the very beginning, St. Joachim School established an excellent reputation for providing the students with a well-rounded education. Today we continue to provide the student with an excellent core program, and offer the children many opportunities to develop their skills in co-curricular activities in the arts, academics, and athletics.” As originally published by St. Joachim Catholic School
St. Maria Goretti Catholic School
St. Maria Goretti Catholic School
Address: 21 Kenmark Blvd, Scarborough, ON M1K 3N8, Canada | Telephone: 416-393-5260 | Fax: 416-397-6371
“We believe that children respond and thrive in a school community that is formed by Catholic beliefs and traditions. We are a Catholic family and we have great support from our neighbor, St. Maria Goretti Catholic Church. Our mission is to educate each student to his or her potential. Each day brings new challenges and opportunities for all of us, and together we become better for these experiences.”As originally published by St. Maria Goretti Catholic School
