AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Eastgate Academy vs. North Star Montessori Elementary School

one-to-one comparison:

View Eastgate Academy's full report
VS.
View North Star Montessori Elementary School's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    200 Karolie Rd, Riverview, New Brunswick, E1B 1R1, Canada

    1325 East Keith Road, North Vancouver, British Columbia, V7J 1J3, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    2020

    1996

    Enrolment

    33

    110

    Grades

    K to 8

    Preschool to 7

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English, French

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
    Emotional
    The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Progressive, International Baccalaureate

    Montessori

    Curriculum pace

    Standard-enriched
    Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
    Student-paced
    The main curriculum pace is non-standardized and is HIGHLY responsive to the pacing of individual students, (via differentiated instruction, differentiated assessment, etc). In theory, some students outpace the default/normalized curriculum, while others spend periods "behind schedule" if they need the extra time.

    Academic culture

    Supportive
    A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.
    Supportive
    A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.

    Avg. Class Size

    Varies

    Varies

    Special needs support

    Gifted learner support

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Play-based
    Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.
    Montessori
    Montessori programs aimed at preschool and Kindergarten- aged children allow young learners to choose which “tasks” or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles -- the essential features of these puzzles being they contain a “right answer” and allow for self-correction. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on learning being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with children developing a sense of self-sufficiency and confidence. Specially trained teachers act as guides, introducing children to progressively more difficult materials when appropriate. A Montessori classroom is typically very calm and orderly, with children working alone or, sometimes, in small groups.

    If you want to learn more about Montessori education, check out our comprehensive guide. You can also check out our guide to Montessori preschools, elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $15,900

    $8,550 to $16,785

    Boarding Tuition

    Financial aid (FA)

    Yes

    Yes

    Students on FA

    0%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    6 to 8

    K to 7

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $0

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    4

    10

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    0%

    Day entry years

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 2 - 8

    No

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    EASTGATE ACADEMY

    information not available

    NORTH STAR MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    EASTGATE ACADEMY

    Eastgate Academy is the first Moncton school to offer the International Baccalaureate Programme to students from Kindergarten to Grade 7. Students graduate with an internationally recognized diploma that’s highly regarded by universities in Canada and across the world. 

    Eastgate Academy structures the curriculum around themes to help students make sense of the world around them and to provide them with opportunities to build skills and understanding that can be transferred to various situations. The school tailors the learning experience to every student, allowing students the freedom to pursue their interests, while balancing academic and intellectual growth with physical and mental well-being. 

     

    View full report

    NORTH STAR MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    North Star Montessori Elementary School is the only school in the North Shore area offering an authentic Montessori elementary program, enriched by outdoor education and field trips. The school’s welcoming community benefits from dedicated teachers trained in Montessori methods, as well as small classes. The school is known for its individualized approach and the ability to ignite a deep love of learning, independence, and respect in students. Its curriculum surpasses BC grade-level standards, with specialized programs in French, music, and STEM. North Star Montessori also offers extensive physical education, integrated arts programs, and a variety of field trips. Parents are drawn to North Star for its nurturing environment and commitment to academic development. The school maintains a non-competitive atmosphere without traditional testing. North Star's education model focuses on developing well-rounded individuals, prepared for lifelong success with creativity, curiosity, and critical thinking skills.

    View full report
  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    EASTGATE ACADEMY

    "Focusing on balancing academic and intellectual growth with physical and mental well-being, we offer a tailored learning experience to every student. Eastgate Academy is a Candidate School for the Primary Years Programme. This school is pursuing authorization as an IB World School. These are schools that share a common philosophy—a commitment to high-quality, challenging, international education that Eastgate Academy believes is important for our students."

    • A challenging and robust academic curriculum delivered by exceptional faculty.
    • We provide a safe and supportive environment open from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
    • At 12 students per teacher, learning becomes mentoring.
    • Collaboration: teachers, students and parents work together to support our learners.
    • Culture: Built on respect and appreciation of each individual in our community.
    • Wellness: Personal and collective wellness is a priority.
    • Engagement: Students are given opportunities to succeed by developing their full potential.

    NORTH STAR MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    "An authentic Montessori program from birth to Gr. 7, we are committed to meeting the needs of each student. We foster a love of learning, independence and respect. The benefits and robust academic curriculum of the Montessori program extend beyond the walls of the classroom and the limits of the BC grade-level curriculum allowing students to meet their fullest potential. Practical experiences build confidence and inspire the self-motivation to 'learn' and 'do' which students carry with them throughout their lives."

    • A welcoming student-parent-teacher community
    • Programs include- infant & toddler, full and half day preschool , kindergarten and elementary
    • Specially trained & dedicated teachers committed to the development and well-being of each student
    • Robust and rigorous academic curriculum
    • Practical hands-on experience to reinforce concepts
    • Promotes creative and critical thinking skills in a non-coercive atmosphere
    • Fosters independent, self-motivated and goal-directed students with a life-long love of learning
    • Extensive Physical Education program
    • Fully integrated music and art programs
    • Wide-ranging and regular filed trips, classroom visitors, and community outings

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    EASTGATE ACADEMY

    "A central feature of our program is wellness. Our community believes in the importance of providing students with opportunities to learn more about personal and collective wellness. We frequently connect with local experts, practitioners, and community members, and our teachers intentionally build strong relationships with students. We provide our students with various experiences to explore tools and strategies to support their physical, social, and emotional wellness."

    NORTH STAR MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    "We meet the social, academic, and developmental needs of each student in an exciting and engaging way. Students are seen as individual learners and their lessons are planned according to their own unique needs and learning styles. Specially trained teachers use the Montessori materials to create a lasting impression of concepts. Deeper exploration of concepts in a dynamic mixed-age classroom make learning fun!"

    Array

    What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?

    EASTGATE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    NORTH STAR MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?

    EASTGATE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    NORTH STAR MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    What type of student is a good fit for your school?

    EASTGATE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    NORTH STAR MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?

    EASTGATE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    NORTH STAR MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?

    EASTGATE ACADEMY

    "Eastgate Academy offers learners opportunities to grow in a safe, collaborative environment. Students are put at the center of learning and given voice, choice, and ownership in their learning journey. The educational experience at Eastgate is student-centred, inquiry-based, and focuses on developing the whole child. This allows students to develop attributes and skills to independently and collaboratively solve problems and create change in their local and global communities."

    NORTH STAR MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    "Families choose North Star because of the warm, caring and inclusive environments in each of the classrooms. They notice from their first tour of the school that students at North Star are calm, focused, and happy. They are confident knowing that North Star is a recognized and authentic Montessori school with high-quality, experienced teachers, and appreciate that their child will be encouraged to strive beyond the academic boundaries of the BC grade-level curriculum."

    Array

    How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?

    EASTGATE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    NORTH STAR MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    EASTGATE ACADEMY

    "Our Eastgate Explorers program allows our students to arrive at school an hour before our day begins or stay up to two hours after the school day ends. During these times, our learners can engage in explorations that connect with their interests or try something new. These explorations rotate throughout the year and support our learners in becoming balanced, open-minded, and collaborative. Explorations range from active (soccer, pickleball) to creative (stop motion, drama, yearbook)."

    NORTH STAR MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    "The huge social-emotional and academic benefits of the mixed-age classrooms- The
    collaborative nature of student relationships across the ages provides inspiration and motivation to younger students, leadership opportunities and reinforcement of knowledge for older students and an elevated level of socialization skills for all students. It is a mutually beneficial relationship that more closely reflects the social dynamic in life outside of school."

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    EASTGATE ACADEMY

    "While students' learning journeys are the top priority, educating our families on our programme offering and how best to support learning at home is essential. Of course, we see our families as partners and consistently communicate. However, we also offer parent workshops in the evening and provide childcare. These hands-on workshops give families a glimpse into how their child(ren) learns while exploring the central features of our program."

    NORTH STAR MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    "Given the non-competitive atmosphere with no traditional testing or homework, it can be surprising to new families that students are so academically advanced, and that grade level competencies are a base, not the ceiling for their child's potential. The way the lessons are presented and the exploratory nature of the Montessori Materials creates a lasting impression and solidifies knowledge."

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    EASTGATE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    NORTH STAR MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    EASTGATE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    NORTH STAR MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    Welcome To Eastgate Academy

    We are, first and foremost, a community of students, educators and families committed to nurturing young people as they find their purpose and grow into their potential.

    Our goal is to create a stimulating and supportive environment where our learners can grow through an iterative inquiry, action and reflection process. A culture of courage and curiosity encourages our learners to push the boundaries of their social, intellectual and physical comfort zones, while a culture of collaboration and community creates a system of support from which our learners draw the confidence to learn from successes and setbacks.

    I am filled with gratitude to be part of such a special community. I feel fortunate to work alongside incredibly talented educators and staff and look forward to supporting Eastgate Academy’s continued growth as principal.

    information not available

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      EASTGATE ACADEMY

      Progressive


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      EASTGATE ACADEMY

      International Baccalaureate

      NORTH STAR MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

      Information not available


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      EASTGATE ACADEMY

      Progressive (sometimes called "in- quiry-based") curricula attempt to place children's interests and ideas at the heart of the learning experience. Instead of lessons being driven by predetermined pathways, progressive curricula are often "emergent", with learning activities shaped by students' questions about the world. Instead of starting with academic concepts and then tying it to everyday experience, progressive methods begin with everyday experience and work back to an academic lesson. Teachers provide materials, experiences, tools and resources to help students investigate a topic or issue. Students are encouraged to explore, reflect on their findings, and discuss answers or solutions.

      NORTH STAR MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

      Particularly popular in the younger grades (preschool to elementary), but sometimes available all the way up to high school, Montessori schools offer an alternative vision to the standard lesson format of most classrooms. Instead of listening to whole-class lessons, Montessori classrooms allow students to choose which "tasks" or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles - their essential feature being they contain a right answer and allow for selfcorrection. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on lessons being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with students developing a sense of self-sufficiency, confidence and curiosity.


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      EASTGATE ACADEMY

      Some private schools offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programming. The "Diploma Programme" is offered to students in the final two years of high school, while the "Primary Years Programme" (ages 3 to 12) and "Middle Years Programme" (ages 11 to 16) serve as preparation for the diploma program.


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      EASTGATE ACADEMY

      Eastgate Academy's programme offering takes an inquiry-based approach to learning and teaching. As such, students are active participants in their learning and frequently collaborate with their peers and teacher to construct their understanding. Using the British Columbia curriculum and the International Baccalaureate framework, students develop attributes and skills, allowing them to become internationally minded.

      NORTH STAR MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

      Information not available

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach

      Approach

      EASTGATE ACADEMY

      Play-based


      Our Take

      Our Take

      EASTGATE ACADEMY

      Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.

      NORTH STAR MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

      Montessori programs aimed at preschool and Kindergarten- aged children allow young learners to choose which “tasks” or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles -- the essential features of these puzzles being they contain a “right answer” and allow for self-correction. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on learning being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with children developing a sense of self-sufficiency and confidence. Specially trained teachers act as guides, introducing children to progressively more difficult materials when appropriate. A Montessori classroom is typically very calm and orderly, with children working alone or, sometimes, in small groups.

      If you want to learn more about Montessori education, check out our comprehensive guide. You can also check out our guide to Montessori preschools, elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      EASTGATE ACADEMY

      Information not available

      NORTH STAR MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

      Information not available

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      Pace

      EASTGATE ACADEMY

      Standard-enriched


      Our Take

      Our Take

      EASTGATE ACADEMY

      Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.

      NORTH STAR MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

      The main curriculum pace is non-standardized and is HIGHLY responsive to the pacing of individual students, (via differentiated instruction, differentiated assessment, etc). In theory, some students outpace the default/normalized curriculum, while others spend periods "behind schedule" if they need the extra time.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      EASTGATE ACADEMY

      Currently, at Eastgate Academy, three grades are combined into one homeroom class: K-2, 3-5, 6-8.

      NORTH STAR MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

      The teachers carefully observe the students, record their progress, give further support and direction as necessary, and present the next level of martial /work, when the student is ready.

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture

      Culture

      EASTGATE ACADEMY

      Supportive


      Our Take

      Our Take

      EASTGATE ACADEMY

      A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.

      NORTH STAR MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

      A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      EASTGATE ACADEMY

      The academic culture at Eastgate is both rigorous and supportive. There are high expectations and a challenging curriculum as students progress through the grades. However, at the heart of the culture is support to support student wellness, inspire curiosity, and cultivate a love of the pursuit of learning. Students are heavily involved in creating norms and expectations that guide the academic culture, and educators are seen as facilitators that create learning engagements that meet students where they are and challenge them.

      NORTH STAR MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

      Information not available


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      EASTGATE ACADEMY

      "We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."

      NORTH STAR MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

      "We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."

  • EXTRACURRICULARS

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Badminton

    Baseball

    Basketball

    Canoeing/Kayaking

    Cricket

    Cross-country skiing

    Cycling

    Downhill skiing

    Equestrian

    Fencing

    Field Hockey

    Figure Skating

    Football

    Golf

    Gymnastics

    Ice Hockey

    Ice Skating

    Lacrosse

    Martial Arts

    Mountain biking

    Racquet Ball

    Rowing

    Rugby

    Running

    Sailing

    Skateboarding

    Snowboarding

    Soccer

    Softball

    Squash

    Swimming

    Tennis

    Track & Field

    Volleyball

    Weightlifting

    Wrestling

    Archery

    Curling

    Ultimate


    Clubs Offered

    Clubs offered

    EASTGATE ACADEMY

    Ballet and Classical Ballet
    Yoga
    Yearbook
    Student Council
    Scouting
    Science Club
    School newspaper
    Round Square
    Robotics club
    Radio club
    Poetry/Literature club
    Photography
    Paintball
    Outdoor Education
    Outdoor Club
    Online Magazine
    Musical theatre/Opera
    Math Club
    Jazz Ensemble
    Habitat for Humanity
    Foreign Language Club
    Environmental Club
    Drama Club
    Debate Club
    Dance Club
    Computer Club
    Community Service
    Choir
    Chess Club
    Band
    Audiovisual Club
    Astronomy Club
    Art Club
    Animation

    NORTH STAR MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    Ballet and Classical Ballet
    Yoga
    Yearbook
    Student Council
    Scouting
    Science Club
    School newspaper
    Round Square
    Robotics club
    Radio club
    Poetry/Literature club
    Photography
    Paintball
    Outdoor Education
    Outdoor Club
    Online Magazine
    Musical theatre/Opera
    Math Club
    Jazz Ensemble
    Habitat for Humanity
    Foreign Language Club
    Environmental Club
    Drama Club
    Debate Club
    Dance Club
    Computer Club
    Community Service
    Choir
    Chess Club
    Band
    Audiovisual Club
    Astronomy Club
    Art Club
    Animation


    What the school says

    What the school says

    EASTGATE ACADEMY

    • The school is open to students from 7:30-5:30pm. The co-curricular activities offered before and after school are are included in the tuition and are eligible as a child care expense. As such, receipts for that portion of the tuition will be issued for tax purposes.
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    6 - 8

    K - 7

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    0%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $0

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    0%

    Day entry years

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 2 - 8

    No

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    Yes: grades K - 8

    No

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    NORTH STAR MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    The younger the child is when exposed to the Montessori environment, the more success they will have in it.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    EASTGATE ACADEMY

    Application fee:

    $100 per student (non-refundable), paid at the time of online application submission. This covers the cost of the admissions assessment.

    Registration deposit:

    $1000 per student, due upon enrollment to secure a place at the school. This amount is non-refundable but will be applied towards tuition.

    Bond: 

    $10,000 per family, paid upon enrollment. The bond is an investment in the growth and development of the school. It is reimbursed to the family at the end of the school year in which the last child leaves the school.

    NORTH STAR MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    Please visit North Star's Website for more information.

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

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