Canadian Accredited Independent Schools was founded in 1981 as a membership body for private and independent schools outside of the governance of State or federal education bodies. In 1986 the organisation introduced standards for educational frameworks and delivery within the sector which were to be adopted and subscribed to by members.

Today, nearly 100 schools from across Canada are members of the organisation, including Canada’s best-known college-preparatory and primary schools, including faith-based schools and boarding schools. The organisation works closely with various provinicial-level accreditation and association bodies in the independent schools sector and, similarly, with peers overseas including the National Association of Independent Schools and the Headmasters’ Conference.

Member schools are able to avail of extensive leadership and governance training to support the administration of their respective schools. CAIS also acts on behalf of member schools in representations to government bodies on matters of common interest.

Membership of CAIS varies but has included the schools listed below. For the latest information regarding the work of the Canadian Accredited Independent Schools organisation or current member details, please visit their website.