Wexford Collegiate School for the Arts

Wexford Collegiate School for the Arts. A school steeped in arts and history, nestled in the Wexford neighbourhood of Scarborough. Wexford Collegiate isn’t just a name; it’s a legacy. The name “Wexford” itself echoes the Irish settlers who established a post office near the school’s current location. Wexford Collegiate School for the Arts, often called “Wexford,” “WCSA,” or simply “Wex,” opened its doors as Wexford Collegiate Institute in September 1965. The Scarborough Board of Education established the school. Initially known as Northwest Collegiate Institute, it stood on land once owned by William Henry McGuire. The transformation to Wexford Collegiate School for the Arts happened in 2006. This change celebrated the school’s dedication to specialized arts programs. The school’s motto, “Palman Qui Meruit Ferat,” translates to “Let him bear the palm who has deserved it.” This motto embodies the spirit of achievement that permeates the school’s arts and academic programs. Wexford Collegiate offers a variety of programs, including robust Visual and Media Arts, and Performing Arts programs. The Visual Arts program boasts nine studios in the Art Centre, each designed for specific courses. Wexford stands out as the only public high school in Toronto offering a Life Drawing course. Aspiring artists can choose between the Grand Masters Certificate and the Visual Arts Certificate, tailoring their education to their ambitions. The Performing Arts program nurtures talent in Music Theatre and Drama Focus. Music Theatre students benefit from strong connections to Toronto’s vibrant film, television, and theatre scene, offering unique opportunities for workshops and professional collaborations. In the 1990s, the Music Theatre program forged a relationship with the Hospital for Sick Children’s Telethon. This collaboration led to performances on national television and collaborations with renowned artists. The Wexford Gleeks, the school’s Glee Club, achieved national recognition by winning the Show Choir Canada National Championship in 2011. Wexford’s influence extends beyond the stage and canvas. Its alumni have made significant contributions to the arts and beyond. Notable alumni include actors like Nina Dobrev and Shamier Anderson, visual artist Shary Boyle, and Juno Award-nominated musician Fefe Dobson. Wexford Collegiate School for the Arts stands as a testament to the power of arts education. It’s a place where talent is nurtured, creativity flourishes, and dreams take flight.