Past, Present, Future

Commercial education in Toronto began in 1892 with a single classroom taught by Mr. R.H. Eldon. In 1902 commercial classes at Harbord, Jarvis and Parkdale Collegiate were transferred to the Technical High School at 149 College Street. In 1911, The High School of Commerce and Finance was transferred to larger quarters at King Edward School. Clinton Street School provided even larger quarters for increased enrolment in 1913. The present building opened in September, 1916 with 548 students. The north wing was completed in 1922 A series of building expansions and improvements occurred in the sixties, as well as the next several decades.

In 1925 the school was renamed Central High School of Commerce. A Grade 12 Commercial course was offered in 1931 and General Grade 13 courses were offered in 1951.

In 1987, the school’s grounds were landscaped to include its first ever playing field.

In September 1991, the name of the school was again changed to Central Commerce Collegiate after a vote by staff and students. In May 2012, a gala reunion of former teachers and students celebrated its centenary. We could proudly look back on one hundred years of change and growth.

Over the past five years, we have evolved into a vibrant school offering a diverse selection of curricula and extracurricular activities. Thus, in June 2014, staff, students, parents and TDSB trustees voted for the name to be changed to Central Toronto Academy. This name retains some history, while reflecting the new direction of our school.

Today, Central Toronto Academy is a large school with an enrolment of approximately 1100 students ranging from grade 9 to 12. With one of the most multicultural, inclusive and diverse student bodies in the city, and proudly boasting the largest population of international students in the TDSB, our students bring to the school different strengths and interests. Despite its size, CTA is a place where everyone knows each other. This intimate and friendly environment is what makes CTA feel like home.

Principals have been: