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Empowering Private &
Independent School
Leaders Across Canada

Both accredited schools and those pursuing accreditation are welcome.

The Independent and Private School Forum (IPSF) is a place where school owners, principals, and senior leaders come together
to learn about best practices, share ideas, access high-quality professional learning, and elevate their schools through collaboration
and innovation. As the exclusive Cognia partner in Canada, we support continuous improvement and School Accreditation
efforts with excellence and integrity.

Who We Are

Our organization supports continuous improvement and school accreditation efforts with excellence and integrity, while fostering collaboration and innovation among school owners, principals, and senior leaders.

We hold the exclusive partnership with Cognia in Canada.

01

Personalized Onboarding

Receive a comprehensive welcome package and access to our member portal.

02

Public Recognition

Get listed as an official IPSF member and display our digital membership badge.

03

Member Spotlight

Be featured in our newsletter and potentially share your story at events.

04

Exclusive Resources

Access our library of templates, tools, and accreditation support materials.

05

Leadership Opportunities

Contribute to the national conversation and participate in exclusive leadership events.

Become A Member

Joining the Independent and Private School Forum is more than becoming part of a professional association — it’s a mark of leadership, a commitment to excellence, and a public signal that your school is serious about growth, innovation, and collaboration.

Empowering School Leaders Across Canada’s Independent and Private Sector

At IPSF, we believe that great schools are led by great people—and that leadership thrives in community. Across Canada, independent and private schools are navigating an increasingly complex and evolving educational landscape. From shifting policy to technological transformation, today’s school leaders are being asked to do more, faster, and with greater impact.

That’s where the Independent and Private School Forum (IPSF) comes in. Whether your school is newly founded or well-established, faith-based or progressive, large or small, IPSF exists to support your journey.

Our mission is to connect, equip, and elevate school leaders through:

– Best practice sharing from across our network

– Exclusive professional development sessions

– Strategic accreditation support through our partnership with Cognia

– Advocacy and visibility for the issues that matter to our sector

– A community of peers who understand your challenges and celebrate your successes

As Executive Director of IPSF, I’m honoured to walk alongside passionate educators, visionary administrators, and bold school founders who are shaping the future of Canadian education.
Whether you’re here to build leadership capacity, pursue accreditation, or simply connect with others who care deeply about students and schools—you belong here.
We look forward to learning with you and supporting the important work you do every day.

Warmly,
Christian Bayly, M.A.
Executive Director, IPSF

"As a new school leader, I didn’t know where to start — IPSF helped me find my footing right away. Their onboarding process was welcoming, practical, and deeply encouraging." - Online School Principal, Canada

“Being part of IPSF has completely changed how I lead my school. The peer support and resources are unmatched.” –Head of School, Ontario
“The Cognia accreditation journey would’ve been daunting without IPSF’s guidance. Their support was essential.” –Principal, Mississauga, Ontario

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