Even before I moved here, I was thrilled to find that Toronto had an Aveda Institute. I had my hair cut and highlighted by students at the Aveda Institute in my previous location for 5+ years and am a big fan. Cut and partial highlights for about $60 is about 1/3 to 1/5 the price I've heard from friends and colleagues who go to salons. I don't have a fancy haircut (long layers) and do not have high-maintenance hair, but I've never had a bad experience at Aveda. The students really take their time and do a great job...and they check in regularly with their instructors who also check in with the client to make sure that everyone is on the same page.
An appointment here *does* take longer than a salon appointment, so plan accordingly. I have more time than money to spare and I do enjoy having a few hours of down time where someone else fusses over me so I don't mind. Definitely a bargain, with high quality services from students who go on to high-end places after their extensive training.