Enoch Turner Schoolhouse

Step inside an 1858 classroom and explore the past.

The Enoch Turner Schoolhouse — originally known as the Ward School — was the first free school in Toronto, and is an important part of the story of public education in Ontario. Today, the schoolhouse welcomes students and learners of all ages to explore Victorian education in a growing city.

Program topics include:

Mrs. Henderson’s Classroom (60 min) | Ages 6-11

Our most popular program! Students step back in time to 1858 to experience an average school day for a Victorian child.

Victorian Childhood (40 min) | Ages 6-11

Learn about what children in industrial Toronto did for fun, including the games and toys they played with.

Dancing and Decorum (40 min) | Ages 6-11

Discover the importance of dance as a social activity in Victorian society, as well as the importance of proper etiquette.

General Tour (30 min) | Older youth or adults

Learn about the history of the building and its role in advancing public, accessible education and the history of the nearby community.

heritagetrust.on.ca/etsh