415 Yonge Street

In 1918, the physical education department moved into a former YWCA building at this location. The building was equipped with necessary facilities, including a gymnasium and swimming pool. It was used during the day by the school, and in the evenings by the T. Eaton Company for after-work activities. 

Focus on Physical Education

Declining enrolment in the drama department meant that by 1926, The Margaret Eaton school focused solely on physical education. It offered a two-year Physical Education diploma. Students received training in theoretical subjects like anatomy and hygiene, as well as practical study in first aid and sports. In the fall, students attended Camp Tanamakoon in Algonquin Park to study outdoor education and leadership training.

Opening Doors

The 1920s and 30s have been described as a ‘golden age for women in Canadian sport.’ Women were breaking barriers in professional sports, the Olympics, and sports journalism. These women athletes needed women leaders. The Margaret Eaton School opened doors and prepared women for this emerging field. Alumnae often found jobs in camps, private schools, and YWCAs. The school operated until 1942, when it merged with the University of Toronto to form the first Bachelor of Physical Education in Canada.

*Sources:

Anna H. Lathrop, “From Elegance and Expression to Sweat and Strength: Physical Education at the Margaret Eaton School,” in Framing Our Past: Constructing Canadian Women’s History in the Twentieth Century (Montreal: McGill-Queen’s University Press, 2001).

Dorothy N.R. Jackson, A Brief history of three schools : the School of Expression, the Margaret Eaton School of Literature and Expression, the Margaret Eaton School, 1901-1941. Toronto, 1953.

John Byl, “Directing Physical Education In Canadian YWCA’s: Margaret Eaton School’s Influence,1901-1947,” Sport History Review no. 27 (1996), p. 139-154.