AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Montessori Learning Centre of Pickering vs. The Children's House Montessori School

one-to-one comparison:

View Montessori Learning Centre of Pickering's full report
VS.
View The Children's House Montessori School's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    401 Kingston Road, Pickering, Ontario, L1V 1A3, Canada

    16150 Old Simcoe Road, Port Perry, Ontario, L9L 1P3, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1984

    1994

    Enrolment

    200

    125

    Grades

    Nursery/Toddler to 8

    Nursery/Toddler to 8

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    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.

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Montessori

    Montessori

    Curriculum pace

    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.
    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.

    Avg. Class Size

    Varies

    Varies

    Special needs support

    Gifted learner support

    Preschool/K curriculum

    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.
    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

    $12 to $14,000

    $9,500 to $11,500

    Boarding Tuition

    Financial aid (FA)

    No

    No

    Students on FA

    0%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    None

    None

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $0

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    15

    10

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    0%

    Day entry years

    Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Not available

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - 8

    No

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    information not available

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    Often what attracts parents to Montessori education is the close, community feel that many schools are able to provide, and that’s very true of MLCP. The school began in 1984 with 25 students, and growth has been less of a concern for its administrators than quality. The student population today is just 200, this in a program that spans preschool through Grade 8. Yes, there are all of the things we expect of the Montessori approach, though that’s coupled with a very close attention to the needs of individuals, both students and parents combined. Before and after care is available, and while it’s not included in tuition, the rates are very reasonable. Likewise, those programs are entirely flexible—parents pay only for what they use. In that, and in other ways, this is a school that really operates with the needs of its families foremost in mind.

    View full report

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Children's House Montessori, having begun operations in 1994, is well established. That it continues to be run by founding Principal Laurie Wilson Forbes continues the theme—this is a program that remains true to its founding principles, while drawing on a wealth of expertise and experience. The programming reflects the core ideals that Maria Montessori promoted in her work, those of respect, community, purposeful engagement, and self-directed learning. Staff are trained to international standards. Communication with parents is clear, open, and professional, something that begins even before enrollment. When families enroll they find more than a school, they find a home, which is exactly as it should be. The fee schedule is clear and detailed. Lunches are provided at the toddler and Casa levels, which is a lovely plus to the program. 

    View full report
  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    "MLCP caters to students aged 12 months to 14 years, following Maria Montessori's philosophies and theories. Her exciting range of materials is available to introduce new concepts and lessons. To further enrich the curriculum, the school offers French, Physical Education and Music and Movement, with Home Economics, Civics, Computer, library visits and community service for the older students. A bilingual programme is offered beginning at the Junior Elementary Level."

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    "Children's House Montessori School's large natural campus was founded in 1994 by Principal Laurie Wilson Forbes, who is still the heart and hands of the school today. CHMS closely follows AMI core principles to offer authentic Montessori programs. We are sized to offer a full range of programs, but still maintain a close, personal family feel in a small town community. Our caring, AMI trained staff foster a challenging and supportive environment for each child in order to prepare them for a lifetime of learning."

    • Laurie Wilson Forbes (Owner/administrator) of the school is AMI trained
    • CHMS follows AMI principles as outlined by Dr. Montessori
    • Beautiful, stand alone campus with large playgrounds and access to wooded areas
    • Reasonably priced high quality education

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    "The individualization that the Montessori program offers allows staff to recognize and hone individual learning styles empowering students to be working at potential. Our long term staff share years of dedicated experience with students. Our commitment to the development of the student as a whole person is supported by a myriad of opportunities to grow and thrive."

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    "Maria Montessori referred to her “method” as a “Scientific Pedagogy”. Montessori schools are not based on a curriculum but a scientific approach through careful observation of a child. Montessori programs are based on the individual developmental needs and tendencies of every child and support the full development of the human being. Children's House ensures programs that allow children to intellectually, socially, physically and psychologically to meet their full potential."

    Array

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

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    Information not available

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    Information not available

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    Information not available

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    Information not available

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    "Our long history in Pickering has allowed us the privilege of sharing all we offer with many families. Our program is a solid and acknowledged one growing and changing over the years, based on family needs and feedback. MLCP respects and appreciates the referrals from those who have come before and continually strives to better in all we offer."

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    "The families that choose Children's House are drawn to the profound respect shown for the child and the limitless potential we see in each and every child who attends our school. They appreciate the friendly and cheerful nature of the staff, the community feel of the school and how that meshes well with the small town feel of Port Perry itself."

    Array

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

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    Information not available

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    Information not available

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    "Children's House Montessori is located next to the Scugog Community Centre. This location allows us access to soccer fields, baseball diamonds, walking trails, volleyball court and lets us enhance our program with ice skating in the winter."

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    "Ongoing feedback often refers to appreciation for the individualization of all that we offer with each student and family. Especially with longer attending students, the dedication of the long term staff and the respect shared between them for differences and accomplishments is often noted. The uniqueness of each is valued."

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    "Families looking into Children's House Montessori School are often pleasantly surprised to find that they are receiving an extremely high quality authentic Association Montessori Internationale Montessori program at an extremely reasonable cost. This is a conscience decision on our part to allow our school community a more diverse and well rounded student body."

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    Information not available

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    Information not available

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    Nicola Phillips opened the Montessori Learning Centre in Pickering in 1984 with the view to offering the Montessori environment in the way that had excited her during her training.  The school continues to be devoted to the individualized nurturing and deveopment of each student encouraging potential in each area of the curriculum. Stong subject areas are honed and potentialized and areas in need of attention are recognized and strengthened. The nurturing element of Montessori's method is exercised at all levels with both students and staff respecting differences and encouraging growth in all areas both academic and social.

    information not available

  • 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

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    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

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI 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

  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    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

    Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Not available

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - 8

    No

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    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

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    We are looking for families / students who are committed to Montessori's belief that children have different learning styles and that our goal of having each child reach their potential in each area of development and curriculum is important. Montessori offers a whole person approach to education which needs to be respected by all involved parties.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    We meet with prospective parents to ensure that they have read through our admissions package and that Montessori's philosophies and theories are in line with their educational plan.  We arrange some on site visits, as needed, to further ensure that parents are aware of how the classrooms work and the expectations of the school.

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

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