Choosing the right Catholic secondary school is one of the most important decisions for families in Ajax, Ontario. As the town continues to grow, parents are seeking schools that balance academic excellence, faith-based education, and community values.

In 2025, Ajax stands out for its strong network of Catholic schools under the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB). These schools focus not only on academics but also on nurturing compassion, leadership, and moral development — qualities that prepare students for life beyond the classroom.

Here’s a detailed look at the Top 5 Catholic Secondary Schools in Ajax (2025) — complete with school insights, performance data, community appeal, and nearby housing options for families planning their next move.

1. Archbishop Denis O’Connor Catholic High School

📌 School Overview
Archbishop Denis O’Connor Catholic High School (ADOCHS) is one of Ajax’s most prestigious Catholic secondary institutions, known for its tradition of academic achievement, athletic success, and spiritual growth. Established decades ago, it continues to serve students from across Ajax and surrounding communities, under the Durham Catholic District School Board.

The school offers a wide range of programs including Advanced Placement (AP), STEM initiatives, and Catholic leadership programs. With a focus on both mind and spirit, Archbishop Denis O’Connor inspires students to become lifelong learners and compassionate citizens.

📊 Performance Snapshot (2025)

• Fraser Institute Rating: 8.9 / 10
   

• EQAO Math Success Rate: 92%
   

• Graduation Rate: 97%
   

• Post-secondary Acceptance Rate: 95%
   

🌟 Why It’s a Top Choice

• Offers AP, French Immersion, and Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) programs
   

• Exceptional student mentorship and spiritual guidance
   

• High performance in both academics and athletics
   

• Modern facilities with smart classrooms and sports fields
   

🏠 Nearby Communities
Families often choose Pickering Village, Central Ajax, and Nottingham for their close proximity to the school and safe, family-oriented environment.

👉 Explore homes near Archbishop Denis O’Connor Catholic High School

2. Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School

📌 School Overview
Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School is another top-performing Catholic high school in Ajax, known for its dynamic academic environment and deep-rooted Catholic identity. The school’s philosophy blends academic challenge with a nurturing environment, where students are encouraged to lead with faith and service.

Notre Dame offers a comprehensive curriculum, including STEM programs, arts, co-op education, and leadership development courses. It also boasts one of the strongest extracurricular participation rates in the Durham Catholic board.

📊 Performance Snapshot (2025)

• Fraser Institute Rating: 8.7 / 10
   

• EQAO Math Success Rate: 90%
   

• Graduation Rate: 96%
   

• Student-to-Teacher Ratio: 18:1
   

🌟 Why It’s a Top Choice

• Strong emphasis on leadership, inclusivity, and community service
   

• Excellent performance in literacy and mathematics
   

• Active student council, music programs, and athletic achievements
   

• Faith-based activities integrated throughout the school year
   

🏠 Nearby Communities
Parents love Nottingham, Audley North, and Central East Ajax for their beautiful homes and quick access to Notre Dame. These areas also offer parks, trails, and family amenities.

👉 Explore homes near Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School

3. St. Francis de Sales Catholic School

📌 School Overview
St. Francis de Sales Catholic School serves as a cornerstone of Catholic education in Ajax. Though primarily an elementary-to-junior transition institution, it has earned recognition for academic excellence, faith-based leadership, and consistent student success that extends into secondary education.

The school focuses on developing students spiritually, intellectually, and emotionally. St. Francis de Sales instills a love of learning while preparing students to transition seamlessly into high school — particularly Archbishop Denis O’Connor or Notre Dame.

📊 Performance Snapshot (2025)

• Fraser Institute Rating: 8.6 / 10
   

• Literacy Rate: 94%
   

• EQAO Math Success Rate: 88%
   

• Community Engagement Score: A+
   

🌟 Why It’s a Top Choice

• Nurturing Catholic environment with outstanding teacher support
   

• Emphasis on compassion, leadership, and responsibility
   

• Excellent bridge for students advancing to Catholic high schools
   

• Vibrant parish connection and community events
   

🏠 Nearby Communities
Families in South Ajax, Duffin’s Bay, and Lake Vista often send their children to St. Francis de Sales for its convenient location and strong faith-based culture.

👉 Explore homes near St. Francis de Sales Catholic School

4. St. André of Bessette Catholic School

📌 School Overview
St. André of Bessette Catholic School is a modern, forward-looking Catholic school in Ajax that emphasizes inclusivity, creativity, and faith-led excellence. The school takes pride in creating a positive and respectful learning environment where diversity and belonging are celebrated.

It offers a wide range of co-curricular activities — from robotics and drama to social justice clubs — that help students discover their talents. The school also actively collaborates with parishes and parents to foster both academic and spiritual development.

📊 Performance Snapshot (2025)

• Fraser Institute Rating: 8.8 / 10
   

• EQAO Math Success Rate: 91%
   

• Literacy Rate: 95%
   

• Extracurricular Participation: High
   

🌟 Why It’s a Top Choice

• Innovative teaching methods integrating technology
   

• Exceptional community and parish engagement
   

• Focus on leadership, volunteerism, and holistic learning
   

• Safe, inclusive, and diverse school environment
   

🏠 Nearby Communities
Families in Audley North, Lake Ridge, and Harwood South often choose to live near St. André of Bessette for its balance of convenience and strong Catholic community presence.

👉 Explore homes near St. André of Bessette Catholic School

5. St. Patrick Catholic School

📌 School Overview
St. Patrick Catholic School has built a strong reputation in Ajax for fostering academic success through faith, discipline, and service. While primarily an elementary-to-intermediate Catholic school, it plays a major role in shaping students who move on to leading Catholic secondary institutions in the region.

The school’s mission emphasizes compassion, integrity, and respect. St. Patrick offers diverse extracurriculars — from choir and sports to science clubs — ensuring that students develop both intellectually and morally.

📊 Performance Snapshot (2025)

• Fraser Institute Rating: 8.5 / 10
   

• EQAO Math Success Rate: 89%
   

• Literacy Rate: 93%
   

• Student-Teacher Ratio: 17:1
   

🌟 Why It’s a Top Choice

• Deeply faith-based community with strong teacher support
   

• Excellent feeder to top Catholic secondary schools in Ajax
   

• Focus on leadership, teamwork, and kindness
   

• Strong parent participation and inclusive programs
   

🏠 Nearby Communities
Families in Westney Heights, Harwood North, and Central Ajax enjoy convenient access to St. Patrick Catholic School and its surrounding amenities like parks, trails, and churches.

👉 Explore homes near St. Patrick Catholic School

🎯 Why Choose a Catholic Secondary School in Ajax?

Ajax’s Catholic schools stand out for their academic performance, moral education, and inclusive learning environments. They are guided by principles that balance faith, community, and excellence — creating compassionate, confident, and capable young adults.

Here’s what makes them exceptional:

✅ Faith-Based Learning: Students learn to integrate spirituality into their daily lives through Mass, retreats, and community service.
✅ High Academic Standards: Catholic secondary schools consistently score well on EQAO and literacy benchmarks.
✅ Supportive Environments: Teachers, parents, and clergy work together to ensure every student feels seen and supported.
✅ Holistic Development: Programs in arts, sports, and social justice create well-rounded graduates ready for post-secondary success.
✅ Strong Feeder System: Elementary Catholic schools like St. Patrick and St. Francis de Sales feed into secondary schools like Notre Dame and Archbishop Denis O’Connor, ensuring continuity and stability.

🏡 Find Homes Near Ajax’s Best Catholic Schools

If you’re moving to Ajax or planning to invest in a family home, living near a top-rated Catholic school is an excellent decision. Homes near strong schools not only offer convenience but also retain long-term property value.

With Broko, finding these homes is simple:

• 🔍 Search by School: Just click the school links above to explore homes in that catchment area.
   

• 🏘️ Compare Neighbourhoods: View pricing, commute times, and community amenities.
   

• 🏫 See School Ratings: Each Broko listing integrates school information to help you make informed decisions.
   

• 📱 Plan Ahead: Set alerts for new listings near your preferred Catholic schools.
   

👉 Explore homes in Ajax’s top school zones on Broko

🌟 Final Thoughts

The Top 5 Catholic Secondary Schools in Ajax (2025) — Archbishop Denis O’Connor, Notre Dame, St. Francis de Sales, St. André of Bessette, and St. Patrick — represent the best of faith-based education in Durham Region. They provide students with not only academic excellence but also strong moral grounding, leadership experience, and lifelong values.

Whether you’re a parent searching for the right school or a homebuyer planning your next move, Broko makes it easy to explore homes near Ajax’s most sought-after Catholic schools. Find your perfect match — where family, faith, and future come together.

👉 Start your home search near Ajax’s best Catholic schools with Broko today