John Wanless Public School 100th Anniversary 1926-2026

Join us in celebrating John Wanless Junior Public School’s 100th anniversary on May 30th from 1pm - 4pm! Enjoy decades-themed rooms, welcome speeches, a photo booth, memorabilia room, and more.

As we celebrate this significant milestone, we invite everyone - past and present students, families and educators - to share their memories.

Please reach out via email at [email protected] to get involved.

John Wanless Public School through the ages. Which version of JW do you remember?

A look at the vibrant school years of 1957-1964! These school snapshots capture the innocence and joy of childhood at John Wanless Public School, where friendships were formed on playgrounds and laughter echoed through the halls.

From the classic hairstyles to the iconic fashion, it’s amazing to see how some things have remained the same—like the excitement of learning, and the pure joy of making memories with friends. 📷 credit: Nick Harding

Throwback to a selection of John Wanless class photos from 1971-72 to 1976-77! These snapshots capture not just the memories but also the evolving fashion trends of the ‘70s. One standout style? The iconic white knee socks! They added a playful touch to school outfits, embodying the carefree spirit of youth during this vibrant era. As we celebrate the 100th anniversary of John Wanless, let’s take a moment to appreciate the fashion that defined our past! 📷 courtesy of Richard Bradley

John Wanless class photos from school years 1962-3 (grade 4) to 1965-6 (grade 7 - the final year before Glenview Senior Public School opened).

John Wanless entry class of 1944. Photo courtesy of: Robert Thomas Bradley

John Wanless Junior Public School is celebrating its 100th year anniversary in 2026! We are planning a community event on May 30th, 2026 and we are looking for community volunteers to join the committee and participate in this milestone event! Please reach out via email at [email protected]

Please follow our Facebook and Instagram pages as we honour a century of dedication to education, community and innovation. As we celebrate this milestone, we invite everyone - past and present students, families and educators - to share their memories.

Credit Sharry Wilson -- Neil Young (pictured second row from the back, third in from the right) with a mischievous grin, Grade 8, 1958-59, John Wanless Public School, Toronto. (Courtesy of Michael Foudls.)

John Wanless Public School circa 1933 - Credit Brian Tearne

The John Wanless Company:

The John Wanless Company was founded by John Wanless in 1840. The company were Toronto-based merchants of jewellery and other fine goods. By 1907, it was the oldest jewellery company in Toronto. The John Wanless Company was operated by several generations of the Wanless family prior to its closure in the 1940s. The company was based at 243 Yonge Street from 1916 until the 1940s. One of the John Wanlesses also served as an alderman and school trustee during the early 20th century. The John Wanless Junior Public School and the Wanless Park neighbourhood are named after him.

11/12/1977 Original Toronto Star caption: Mayor David Crombie up the pole at John Wanless playground opening yesterday

7/14/1981 John Wanless Public School, Brookdale Avenue, north side, between Greer Road and Elm Road, Toronto, Ontario