Impressive Upper Beaches, perfect for Seniors, young families and working couples.
History:
The Upper Beaches is a neighborhood in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It is directly north of the Beaches area and it stretches from Coxwell Avenue in the west to Victoria Park in the east. Kingston Road the southern border while the northern boundary is generally considered to be the Canadian National Railway tracks between Gerrard Street and Danforth Avenue. The western part of the area was originally called Norway, and the larger area was once part of the Town of East Toronto. The name “Upper Beaches” was first used by developers and real estate agents around the period of 2001 to 2003 for the selling of houses on redeveloped land in the area, and was used as a marketing tag to attract buyers. The area was never considered part of the Beaches neighborhood but was close to it. The city’s current name for this area is East End-Danforth, though that is rarely used. The city also includes the buildings along and just north of Danforth Avenue in the neighborhood. The western portion between Woodbine Avenue and Coxwell is referred to by the city as Woodbine Corridor.
Overview:
East End-Danforth, also known as The Upper Beaches, is the neighbourhood directly north of the Beaches area in Toronto. The western part of the area was originally called Norway, and the larger area was once part of the Town of East Toronto. The area was also home to a number of industrial sites alongside the rail line, which runs just north of Gerrard. Today almost all of the industry has been replaced by large housing developments.
East End-Danforth Village (often referred to as ‘Greek Town’, or the ‘Upper Beach(es)’) is bordered by Leslieville to the south and Bloor Street to the west. It is a lively, shop-local neighborhood with a well-spring of European and predominantly Greek influences. The charms of this neighborhood are not only in its: patio-centric atmosphere, delicious culinary delights, artisanal cheese shops, specialty stores, bakeries, beautiful clothing boutiques, health food varieties, and yoga studios, but it’s well-crafted, and immaculately maintained residential streets.
Homes:
East End-Danforth, or also known as The Upper Beaches, is the neighborhood directly north of the Beaches area in Toronto. The western part of the area was originally called Norway, and the larger area was once part of the Town of East Toronto. The area was also home to a number of industrial sites alongside the rail line, which runs just north of Gerrard. Today almost all of the industry has been replaced by large housing developments. The typical housing type in this neighborhood is Older duplexes and townhouses. It is also perfect for Seniors, young families and working couples looking for affordable rents. Renting in the Upper Beaches is relatively affordable – one-bedroom rentals are often under $1,000 and are usually bigger than what you’d find closer to downtown, which is great for seniors and couples. For families, renting three or more bedrooms is a bit tougher due to a small pool of rentals available in that size, mainly because a lot of families in the neighborhood own their own homes.
Lifestyle:
Generally speaking, the Upper Beaches form a pretty quiet, laid back residential community. It’s neither the trendiest, nor the most affluent, nor crime-laden, nor raucous after dark. It’s a rather normal and subdued bedroom community that’s close to some pretty great entertainment and shopping areas, namely the Danforth for a livelier scene and kitschy Queen Street. There are a few playgrounds around for afternoons with the kids, like Cassels Park (it doubles as the dog park), or families can explore Small Creek in the west end of the community. For commuters, getting downtown is quick enough on one of three streetcar lines, or if you prefer to skip town for the weekend, Kingston Road makes it easy to head east and the Don Valley Parkway is close enough for traveling north to the lakes. Otherwise, for a getaway closer to home, just take a short jaunt south to the Beaches for some time on the sand along the lakeshore.
The Vibe
A highly-coveted area to live in the city, homes in Danforth Village are impressive, with well-manicured lawns and foliage, tree-lined walkways, pedestrian-friendly walkability, local parks for play, and classic architecture. Residents enjoy walking to pick up fresh produce, ripe cheese, smoothies, rich coffees, and trinkets. A simple day outside can be anything from a walk to the park, to a yoga class, to get groceries, or to lay-low with neighbors on a patio (maybe even their own!). This is the type of neighborhood where people say ‘hello’ and local shops know you by name. It’s proximity to Toronto’s east-end stretch of sandy beach(es) and the waterfront is just another bonus to an area where, otherwise, everything you could ever need is right outside your front doorstep.
Parks, Recreation & Culture..
Want to get out of the house? There are tons of places for a bite to eat if you know where to look. Right within the Upper Beaches neighborhood are a few hotspots, like where Kingston meets Victoria Park. Check out No Bull Burgers or the Beech Tree. Farther west on Kingston there’s the Beaches Bakeshop, or find the neighborhood favorite, Upper Beach Cafe near Gerrard on Woodbine. Head a little north to the Danforth and you’ve got the endless selection of bars, cafes, Greek bakeries, shops and galleries of Greektown. Or get your fix of antiques and vintage trinkets on Queen Street farther south in the Beaches.
Transportation:
The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) operates three Toronto streetcar system lines in the area, including the 502 Downtowner, 503 Kingston Rd, and the 506 Carlton streetcar lines. The 502 Downtowner and 503 Kingston Rd operates along Kingston Road, whereas the 506 Carlton streetcar line operates along Gerrard Street (Toronto). The 506 Carlton’s eastern terminus is located within the Upper Beaches, at Main Street station. The station provides connections to several routes operated by the TTC bus system, as well as Line 2 Bloor–Danforth of the Toronto subway system.
Schools:
Upper Beaches / East End-Danforth has 13 Public schools, 6 Catholic schools, and 1 Private in this neighborhood, your kids can get a great education.
PUBLIC SCHOOL
Monarch Park Collegiate Institute
Address: 1 Hanson St, Toronto, ON M4J 1G6, Canada | Telephone: (416) 393-0190 | Fax: (416) 393-0834 | Email: MonarchPark@tdsb.on.ca
“Monarch Park is a welcoming, supportive and safe school. With the individual in mind, we strive to ensure that each student’s needs are met with support both inside and outside of the classroom. Our supports include the Tutors in the Classroom program, a dedicated social worker and other workshops/events that assist our students with their individual and collective needs. We focus on Global Education and our community is represented by over 70 different countries. Our students are encouraged to pursue excellence and lifelong learning in individual subject areas and in our International Baccalaureate Program.” As originally published by Monarch Park Collegiate Institute
É Élém La Mosaïque
Address: 80 Queensdale Ave, East York, ON M4J 1Y3, Canada | Telephone: 416 465-5757
“Nous sommes heureux d’accueillir environ 400 élèves de la maternelle à la 6e année dans un milieu sécuritaire où il fait bon apprendre. À l’école élémentaire La Mosaïque, nous préconisons le développement global de l’enfant en mettant l’accent sur la pensée critique, la curiosité intellectuelle et l’imagination. Nous désirons outiller les enfants pour qu’ils prennent leur place dans un monde en évolution afin de devenir des citoyens engagés.” As originally published by É Élém La Mosaïque
Adam Beck Junior Public School
Address: 400 Scarborough Rd, Toronto, ON M4E 3M8, Canada | Telephone: (416) 393-1682 | Fax: (416) 393-1683 | Email: AdamBeck@tdsb.on.ca
“The Adam Beck program is based on the Ontario and TDSB initiatives. We aim to: Provide a warm, welcoming, and safe learning environment in which our students build self-esteem, confidence and learn to work together in mutual respect and trust. Meet the needs of the whole child – intellectually, physically, socially, and emotionally. Help all students develop skills, knowledge, attitudes and values necessary to strive for academic excellence in all areas of the curriculum and to become self-disciplined, life long learners. Maintain and enhance partnerships between home, school, the community and among staff members. Support programs and initiatives which develop respect for the environment and the wise use of resources.” As originally published by Adam Beck Junior Public School
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
Bowmore Road Junior and Senior Public School
Address: 80 Bowmore Rd, Toronto, ON M4L 3J2, Canada | Telephone: (416) 393-9450 | Fax: (416) 393-9448 | Email: Bowmore@tdsb.on.ca
“Bowmore P.S. is a large, dynamic kindergarten to grade 8 learning community of approximately 860 students and over 80 staff members. Our school is situated in the Upper Beaches, and it was created by the twinning of two former schools in 1989 (Bowmore Road P.S. built-in 1923, and Fairmount Park Senior School built-in 1963). The school houses a variety of programs, including French Immersion, Grade 7 and 8 Extended French, Gifted Intensive Support Programs, and Learning Disability Intensive Support Programs. Bowmore takes pride in providing multiple ways of supporting student interests and needs, which is what makes it such a wonderful place to learn!” As originally published by Bowmore Road Junior and Senior Public School
D. A. Morrison Middle School
Address: 271 Gledhill Ave, East York, ON M4C 5L2, Canada | Telephone: (416) 396-2400 | Fax: (416) 396-2405 | Email: DAMorrison@tdsb.on.ca
“D.A. Morrison combines fifty years as a traditional neighborhood school with a strong commitment to change, new technologies, and a sound education for all learners. This means that all students enjoy a solid education in the basics with a wide variety of options and opportunities for personal and academic growth. Our facilities include a full-size pool, gym facilities, and up to date library, and computer labs, making the school a place of educational excellence. Enriched by diversity and committed to equity, we offer programs to meet the needs, goals, and interests of our students. In addition to strong academics, we offer outstanding programs in Music, Visual Art, and Dance.” As originally published by D. A. Morrison Middle School
East York Collegiate Institute
Address: 650 Cosburn Ave, East York, ON M4C 2V2, Canada | Telephone: (416) 396-2355 | Fax: (416) 396-2368 | Email: EastYork@tdsb.on.ca
“East York Collegiate Institute (EYCI) is a dynamic learning community founded on respect and dedicated to ensuring every student is successful every day. EYCI is a welcoming and inclusive school, where students regardless of difference see themselves in the curriculum and feel comfortable taking academic risks in an environment where respect and trust underpin each experience. At the core of all learning is a focus on skills including creativity, collaboration, communication, critical thinking, responsible citizenry, and good character. The EY approach ensures our students are well-rounded, lifelong learners who are prepared to address the challenges of the 21st century and make meaningful contributions as members of the community at large.” As originally published by East York Collegiate Institute
Kimberley Junior Public School
Address: 50 Swanwick Ave, Toronto, ON M4E 1Z5, Canada | Telephone: (416) 393-1450 | Fax: (416) 393-1449 | Email: Kimberley@tdsb.on.ca
“Originally Mary Street School, Kimberley Junior Public School is situated at the corner of Main and Swanwick Streets in East Toronto. October 18th, 1997 marked the school’s centennial celebration. We are a small community school that promotes caring for, and support of, all individuals in our “family”. Kimberley shares its facilities with Beaches Alternative School, which has four first-floor classrooms. The present building is comprised of two floors with a gym/auditorium which is shared by both schools. We also have two portables which are used by teachers as they need extra space. We have an expanded Gym and a new Library Resource Centre.” As originally published by Kimberley Junior Public School
Address: 2 Gledhill Ave, East York, ON M4C 5K6, Canada | Telephone: (416) 393-1745 | Fax: (416) 393-9092 | Email: Gledhill@tdsb.on.ca
“In 1915, the Toronto Board of Education bought 6 acres of land on Gledhill Avenue near the dirt road that was Danforth Avenue. For two years, students were taught in two portables, and then in 1917, almost 300 students started in a new Gledhill schoolhouse. By 1925, Gledhill grew to 30 classrooms. As the Danforth developed into a busy retail street, Gledhill peaked at 1200 students. With some changes to meet safety regulations, Gledhill retained its structure for almost 60 years. In 1983, the Terry Fox Recreation Centre opened. This addition, consisting of a large gym and a community room, reinforced Gledhill’s role as “a great place to be.” As originally published by Gledhill Junior Public School
Glen Ames Senior Public School
Address: 18 Williamson Rd, Toronto, ON M4E 1K5, Canada | Telephone: (416) 393-1800 | Fax: (416) 393-1799 | Email: GlenAmes@tdsb.on.ca
“Glen Ames Senior Public School was built in 1961 and named after A. E. Ames who was the wealthy owner of the Glen Ames estate on Glen Stewart until his death in 1934. It is located south of Kingston Road and north of Queen Street in the heart of what is locally known as ‘The Beach.’ Our facilities are shared with Williamson Road Junior Public School during the day and The Beaches Recreation Centre on evenings and weekends.” As originally published by Glen Ames Senior Public School
Secord Elementary School
Address: 101 Barrington Ave, East York, ON M4C 4Z2, Canada | Telephone: (416) 396-2450 | Fax: (416) 396-2250 | Email: Secord.ES@tdsb.on.ca
“Secord School is located in the Main and Danforth area on the east side of Barrington Avenue at Secord Avenue. The school first opened in November of 1915. Our current facility was built 40 years ago. It has undergone many changes, the latest being in 1995 to increase our permanent space by fourteen classrooms. Secord Public School offers programs from Kindergarten to Grade Five. Our specialized classes include four special education classes. A school-age “Y” Daycare is housed in the Community Centre attached to the school. We house a preschool and kindergarten daycare called “Annie’s Place” and a Early Years Parenting and Family Literacy Centre.” As originally published by Secord Elementary School
Malvern Collegiate Institute
Address: 55 Malvern Ave, Toronto, ON M4E 3E4, Canada | Telephone: (416) 393-1480 | Fax: (416) 393-1493 | Email: Malvern.CI@tdsb.on.ca
“Welcome to Malvern, one of Toronto’s oldest high schools, serving the Beach community for over 110 years. We offer a wide range of programs in a non-semester format. Malvern also offers extensive extra-curricular programs in visual arts, drama, music, equity & social justice, and athletics. We are well known for our athletic and academic achievements, with numerous championship teams and prestigious scholarship winners. Educational tours and exchanges foster community relationships, both local and abroad. Enroll in Malvern and enjoy a wealth of opportunities to participate in our dynamic learning community.” As originally published by Malvern Collegiate Institute
Norway Junior Public School
Address: 390 Kingston Rd, Toronto, ON M4L 1T9, Canada | Telephone: (416) 393-1700 | Fax: (416) 393-1705 | Email: Norway@tdsb.on.ca
“Norway Junior School is one of the oldest schools in the Toronto District School Board. Its existence can be traced back to a rural schoolhouse built-in 1848. This school was the first to be built in the “Beach” and since then, it has been serving the educational needs of this area which is known for its strong sense of family and community. The current building was opened in April 1977. We celebrated our 100th anniversary in 1996. The school’s enrolment is currently around 300 students from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6.” As originally published by Norway Junior Public School
CATHOLIC AND PRIVATE SCHOOL
Beacon of Light Private Elementary School
Address: 2191 Gerrard St E, Toronto, ON M4E 2C6, Canada | Telephone: (647) 518 8652
“Located in the Beaches area, Beacon of Light Private Elementary School is a newly opened academic institution. Beacon of Light offers children in grades 1 to 8 a strong educational foundation that develops their learning skills, creative capacities, and character formation. By developing the ability to think, analyze, and creatively apply knowledge, we prepare them to make the most of increased globalization and technological advancement. Let us give your child the tools to navigate the demands of tomorrow, today!” As originally published by Beacon of Light Private Elementary School
St. Brigid Catholic School
Address: 50 Woodmount Ave, Toronto, ON M4C 3X9, Canada | Telephone: 416-393-5235 | Fax: 416-393-5815
“St. Brigid was born around the year 453 near Kidare in Ireland. She lived by her words: “to honor Christ, for Christ is in the body of every poor man”. Her hand was always out to the poor. She was considered to be a joyful, invigorating saint, who radiated goodness, wholeness, and the attractiveness of the Christian life. St. Brigid Catholic School opened on November 14, 1921, with 223 students. Today, our staff is a group of highly experienced, self-motivated teachers, committed to making the teaching/learning experience in a Catholic environment as meaningful as possible.” As originally published by St. Brigid Catholic School
ÉÉC Georges-Étienne-Cartier
Address: 250 Gainsborough Rd, Toronto, ON M4L 3C6, Canada | Telephone: (416) 393-9230 | Fax: (416) 393-8424 | Email:
“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
Notre Dame Catholic High School
Address: 12 Malvern Ave, Toronto, ON M4E 3E1, Canada | Telephone: 416-393-5501 | Fax: 416-393-5631
“Notre Dame High School is a school community formed by Catholic beliefs and traditions. We believe that all students can succeed. Inspired by Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys’ vision, we educate young women to assume leadership in their families, the Church, and in the global community.” As originally published by Notre Dame Catholic High School
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: 416-393-5220
“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
St. John Catholic School
Address: 780 Kingston Rd, Toronto, ON M4E 1R7, Canada | Telephone: 416-393-5220 | Fax: 416-393-5211
“St. John is a Roman Catholic School that provides education for children from Junior Kindergarten to Grade Eight. We are a Catholic School community dedicated to providing a faith-centered school environment that will encourage students to reach their full potential academically and socially and who understand the gospel message of social justice and peace.” As originally published by St. John Catholic School
