Family Living
Schools & Family Life
in Durham Region
Durham Region is one of Ontario's most family-friendly areas, offering strong schools, abundant parks, recreational programs, and safe, welcoming communities. Whether you are raising young children or guiding teenagers through high school, this guide helps you find the right fit for your family.
By Keith Williams & Lisa C. Follows, Brokers, Willows Realty Group
Education Options
School Boards in Durham Region
Durham District School Board
The DDSB is the English-language public board serving the majority of Durham Region. It operates over 130 elementary and secondary schools across Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Oshawa, Scugog, Uxbridge, and Brock. Known for strong academic programs, specialized arts programs, and robust special education support.
Durham Catholic District School Board
The DCDSB offers English-language Catholic education across the region with 38 elementary schools and 9 secondary schools. They emphasize academic excellence, faith development, and community involvement. Many schools are highly rated and offer extended French and Advanced Placement programs.
French Immersion & French-Language Boards
Conseil scolaire Viamonde offers French-language public education, while Conseil scolaire catholique MonAvenir provides French Catholic education. Both boards serve Durham families seeking French-first instruction. In addition, many DDSB and DCDSB schools offer French Immersion programs starting in Grade 1 or Grade 4.
Clarington is served by Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board (public) and PVNCCDSB (Catholic). We can help you identify the specific schools serving any property you are considering.
Community Guide to Schools & Amenities
Every Durham Region community has its own character. Here is a snapshot of what each town offers families.
Port Perry / Scugog
A charming lakeside town on Lake Scugog with a strong sense of community. Port Perry is ideal for families seeking small-town life with access to waterfront recreation, parks, and nature trails. Known for its historic downtown, farmers' market, and community events like the Port Perry Fair.
Schools
- Port Perry High School (DDSB)
- R.H. Cornish Public School (DDSB)
- St. Joseph's Catholic School (DCDSB)
- Scugog Central Public School
Family Highlights
- Palmer Park & Scugog Island Conservation Area
- Port Perry Community Centre & Pool
- Waterfront trails & Lake Scugog beaches
- Port Perry Farmers' Market (May to October)
Uxbridge
Known as the "Trail Capital of Canada," Uxbridge offers over 200 km of trails through forests and conservation areas. A tight-knit community with excellent schools, a historic downtown, and strong recreational programming for children and youth.
Schools
- Uxbridge Secondary School (DDSB)
- Scott Young Public School (DDSB)
- St. Joseph's Catholic Elementary School (DCDSB)
Family Highlights
- Uxbridge Arena & Recreation Centre
- 220+ km of trails (walking, biking, snowmobiling)
- Uxbridge Fall Fair & Christmas Market
Brock / Beaverton
A beautiful rural lakeside community on Lake Simcoe with a relaxed pace of life. Brock offers a strong sense of community, outdoor recreation, and affordable housing options. Popular with families seeking country living with access to water.
Schools
- Brock High School (DDSB)
- Sunderland Public School (DDSB)
- St. Patrick's Catholic School (DCDSB - Sunderland)
Family Highlights
- Beaverton Beach & Waterfront Park
- Thorah Wildlife Area hiking trails
- Beaverton Fair & Brock Community Events
Pickering
A dynamic waterfront city just east of Toronto with excellent transit connections. Pickering offers a mix of urban amenities and natural spaces including the Petticoat Creek Conservation Area and Rouge National Urban Park. Strong schools and diverse housing options.
Schools & Family Highlights
- Pickering High School, Dunbarton High School (DDSB)
- St. Mary's Catholic Secondary School (DCDSB)
- Rouge National Urban Park, Petticook Creek Conservation Area
- GO Train to Toronto in under 30 minutes
Ajax
A family-oriented community along the Lake Ontario shoreline with numerous parks, sports fields, and community centres. Ajax has experienced significant growth while maintaining a welcoming suburban feel. Excellent recreation programs for all ages.
Schools & Family Highlights
- J. Clarke Richardson Collegiate, Pickering High (DDSB)
- Archbishop Denis O'Connor Catholic High (DCDSB)
- Greenwood Conservation Area, Ajax Waterfront Park
- Ajax Community Centre & Library
Whitby
One of Durham's most sought-after family communities, Whitby combines excellent schools, beautiful parks, and a vibrant downtown. The town offers outstanding recreational facilities and is home to Durham Region's headquarters. Highly rated schools make it a top choice for families.
Schools & Family Highlights
- Henry Street High School, All Saints Catholic (DCDSB)
- Colonel J.E. Farewell Public School (DDSB)
- Heydenshore Pavilion, Whitby Harbour, Cullen Gardens
- GO Train & Bus to Toronto
Oshawa
Ontario's largest municipality by area and a growing city with diverse housing options, excellent parks, and Ontario Tech University. Oshawa blends urban amenities with natural spaces like Lake Ontario's waterfront and the Oshawa Creek Trail system.
Schools & Family Highlights
- O'Neill CVI, R.S. McLaughlin CVI (DDSB)
- Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic (DCDSB)
- Lakeview Park, Oshawa Valley Botanical Garden
- Ontario Tech University, Durham College
Clarington
A mix of urban centres (Bowmanville, Courtice) and rural communities, Clarington offers an excellent quality of life with strong schools, ample parks, and the beautiful Darlington Provincial Park on Lake Ontario. Highly popular with growing families.
Schools & Family Highlights
- Bowmanville High School, Courtice Secondary School (KPRDSB)
- St. Stephen's Catholic Secondary (PVNCCDSB)
- Darlington Provincial Park, Long Sault Conservation Area
- Bowmanville Santa Claus Parade & Fall Fair
Where Families Thrive
Family-Friendly Neighbourhoods
Durham Region is full of neighbourhoods designed with families in mind. These areas are known for excellent schools, safe streets, parks, and a strong community spirit.
Port Perry
Lakefront & historic downtown
Brooklin
Whitby's family neighbourhood
North Whitby
New schools & parks
South Ajax
Lake Ontario waterfront
Courtice
New builds & rec centres
Bowmanville
Historic downtown & parks
Uxbridge
Trails & small-town feel
Rouge Valley
Pickering's natural gem
Beaverton
Lake Simcoe waterfront
Get Active
Youth Sports & Activities
Durham Region offers an incredible range of programs to keep kids active, engaged, and developing new skills.
Soccer
Durham Region Soccer Association, local clubs in every community
Hockey
OMHA and local associations across Durham Region
Baseball & Softball
Durham District Baseball Association, little leagues
Swimming
Indoor pools, swim clubs, and lessons at every community centre
Dance & Gymnastics
Local studios and recreational programs for all ages
Track & Field
Durham Dragons, school leagues, community programs
Cycling & Mountain Biking
Uxbridge trails, Durham Forest, Kelso trails
Arts & Music
Music lessons, art classes, drama programs in every community
Explore Nature
Parks & Outdoor Spaces
Durham Region is blessed with an abundance of natural spaces. From Lake Ontario's waterfront to the forests of the Oak Ridges Moraine, there is always somewhere to explore on weekends, after school, or during summer break.
Darlington Provincial Park
A 208-hectare park on Lake Ontario in Clarington with a sandy beach, hiking trails, camping, and a pioneer village. Perfect for summer day trips and family camping weekends.
Greenwood Conservation Area
A 320-hectare conservation area in Ajax with trails, picnic spots, a children's playground, and the popular winter skating trail. Open year-round for family adventures.
Waterfront Trail
The Lake Ontario Waterfront Trail runs through Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, and Oshawa, offering 60+ km of paved paths for walking, cycling, rollerblading, and scenic viewpoints. Connects to multiple lakeside parks and beaches.
Nonquon River Trail & Scugog Shores
Port Perry's beautiful waterfront trail system along the Nonquon River and Lake Scugog. The Scugog Shores Museums Village offers a glimpse into pioneer life and family-friendly events throughout the summer.
Durham Regional Forest & Uxbridge Trails
Over 220 km of multi-use trails in Uxbridge, including parts of the Oak Ridges Trail and Trans-Canada Trail. The Durham Regional Forest offers hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing through beautiful Carolinian forest.
Last updated: July 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about schools and family life in Durham Region.
What school boards serve Durham Region?
Are there good schools in Port Perry?
What family activities are available in Durham Region?
Ready to find your family's perfect home?
We know Durham Region's schools, neighbourhoods, and family amenities inside and out. Let us help you find a home where your family will thrive.