A Message from the Principal, Anne Chirakal
In my five years as Principal, I've come to deeply appreciate this massive, majestic, and dynamic institution. While we are proudly known for our exceptional Arts and Technology programs, our greatest strength lies in our students and staff.
Our students form a truly diverse and empathetic community of learners, constantly building relationships and learning with and from one another. Our committed staff, many of whom come directly from industry, work tirelessly to create a culture of powerful learning tailored to each student's needs.
At CTS, we are committed to providing an incredible breadth of programming to ensure success in all pathways, including University, College, Apprenticeships, and the Workplace.
We invite you to read on and discover why Central Tech is a powerful launchpad for your student's future.
Central Technical School: Programs of Excellence
The Arts Centre: Visual Arts, Music, and Drama
CTS is home to one of the city's most renowned arts programs, fostering creativity and skill.
- Specialized Visual Arts Program: Students take two dedicated credits per year, focusing on both foundational skills (drawing, painting) and non-traditional art forms, encouraging risk-taking and creativity.
- General Arts Courses: We offer a wide range of courses for all students, including NAC 10 (exploring Indigenous perspectives through art), Sculpture, Ceramics, Media Art, Photography, Drawing, and Painting.
- Music and Drama: Our offerings include Instrumental Band, Piano/Keyboard, Steel Pan, Guitar, and Junior and Senior Drama classes.
Technology and Trades
Our Tech programming is second to none, supported by state-of-the-art infrastructure and skilled teachers who bring vast experience directly from industry. Every CTS student benefits from our exceptional facilities and mandatory tech credit.
- Grades 9 & 10: Introductory courses in Transportation, Construction (Carpentry, Plumbing, Electrical), Manufacturing, Hospitality, Hairstyling & Aesthetics, Fashion, Design Tech, and Communications Technology.
- Grades 11 & 12: Advanced courses in Woodworking, Auto Services, Electrical, Robotics, Architecture, Restaurant Services, and more.
The LAWS Program (Law In Action Within Schools).
As the first school in the TDSB to offer this program, LAWS aims to increase access and opportunity for students who typically face barriers in the legal profession. This is done in partnership with University Toronto Faculty of Law and Osgoode Law School.
- Structure: Beginning in Grade 10, students are cohorted in key classes (Science, English, History, Law, Civics, Careers).
- Opportunity: Students gain access to tutoring, mentorships, paid internships, and early employment opportunities.
Pathways to Career Success
CTS offers more Specialist High Skills Majors (SHSM) than any other school in the TDSB, providing students with advanced skills and career-focused experience.
- SHSM: This package of credits (starting in Grade 11) includes sector-specific job training, two co-op credits, and results in a valuable Red Seal on the Ontario Secondary School Diploma.
- Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP): We are the only TDSB school who offers OYAP, providing job skills training and high-quality co-op placements that can lead directly to a paid apprenticeship. Students who begin their journey at CTS have a significant advantage in securing OYAP placement.
Student Support Services
We maintain an excellent Special Education Program, offering support for students with IEPs and dedicated Tier 1 support from all classroom teachers. We also host two intensive support programs (LD and MID) with placements managed centrally through the IPRC process.
CTS is an incredible place with many opportunities. I hope you will consider entrusting us with the education and growth of your student. I know we will help make their secondary career not only successful - but memorable.