2199 Regency Terrace, Ottawa, Ontario, K2C 1H2, Canada
1225 Rebecca Street, Oakville, Ontario, L6L 1Z1, Canada
5,530.9 km
5,702.4 km
1983
2013
200
25
Nursery/Toddler to 8
JK to 8
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English, French
English
Academic
Academic
Montessori
Liberal Arts
Varies
10 to 15
Learning, Developmental, Behavioral
In-class adaptations
$4,620 to $19,495
$8,500
Yes
No
0%
0%
1 to 8
None
$0
$0
15
2
0%
0%
99%
0%
Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
information not available
information not available
information not available
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - 8
Yes: grades JK - 8
No
No
information not available
information not available
Every school is unique, and BHMS is a particularly good example of that. It’s a Montessori program, and a faith-based school, though in both of those areas it charts its own unique approach. The school rightly prizes the relationship it has with the families that enroll, bringing them into the life of the school. Parents are drawn by the values that inform the delivery of the curriculum, as well as a focus on empathy and an appreciation of diversity within the school and beyond. While a smaller school, BHMS nevertheless offers a good breadth of extracurricular activities, which is also a principal draw.
View full reportMater Boni Consilii Academy (MBCA) is the only private Catholic school in Halton Region. Founded in 2013, MBCA is a mission-driven community distinguished by the way it integrates intellectual, spiritual, human, and apostolic development with small class sizes. The school holds daily prayer, regular Mass, and sacramental life, which together create an environment where Catholic faith and academics are fully intertwined. Families choose MBCA for its combination of rigorous academics, intentional virtue formation, and personalized attention. The school is especially suited for families looking for a structured, values-based environment where faith is central and for students who flourish under close guidance and discipline.
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"incredible memories"
Danilla Xing - Alumnus (Oct 20, 2017)
When I think back to my time at Bishop Hamilton Montessori School I have nothing but incredible memo... View full review
"a chance to grow at her own speed"
Marie Bordeleau - Parent (Jan 24, 2018)
Our daughter loves BHMS. She is challenged and engaged by the lessons and the activities, and inter... View full review
"able to follow my own interests and passions"
Silvie Cheng - Alumnus (Jan 24, 2018)
What stands out most from my time at BHMS was how freely I was able to follow my own interests and p... View full review
"MBCA matched our expectations of being close-knit, Catholic, affordable, and deeply committed to raising boys and girls to become men and women of virtue."
Melissa AtLee - Parent (Sep 03, 2025)
Our children love the care and attention that they receive at MBCA. The small class sizes allow the ... View full review
"Enrolling your child at MBCA is more than simply sending them to school; it’s about embracing the vision and becoming part of a growing community."
David Borges - Parent (Oct 07, 2025)
Every day truly feels like a great day for my son at this school. He looks forward to learning and i... View full review
"Bishop Hamilton Montessori School, a not-for-profit school, provides a Christian Montessori approach since 1983 with programs for children 3 months to 14 years. Our success is built around our commitment to the academic, spiritual, physical and social growth of each student, which is the foundation of our educational approach. The breadth of our programs include enriched French, Science and Music. BHMS develops students with 21st century skills, to live in the real world."
"Mater Boni Consilii Academy is the first and only JK to Grade 8 private Catholic school in the Halton Region. We offer a liberal arts curriculum rooted in Catholic tradition. Our education model of Integral Formation® provides context for students' academic achievement, linking their intellectual development to the growth of their spirit and character. Partnering with families, we guide students to become authentic Catholic leaders, developing habits of discipline, perseverance, and purpose to transform society."
"Montessori is child-centred form of education that helps students cultivate a love for learning. The Montessori Method was developed by Dr. Maria Montessori in the early 1900s. She believed children learn better when they get to choose what to learn. Here at Bishop Hamilton Montessori School, her philosophy is alive and well.
Bishop Hamilton Montessori School is a CCMA accredited, not-for-profit independent school. We are an authentic Montessori school offering a Christian component . Since 1983, we have provided a high-quality education to generations of children in the Ottawa area."
"At Mater Boni Consilii Academy, our Integral Formation® model blends rigorous academics with character and spiritual development. Students are taught to think deeply, communicate clearly, and engage the world through a coherent Catholic worldview. We serve families seeking a truly Catholic education—one that prioritizes academic excellence, personal virtue, and spiritual maturity. MBCA is ideal for students who flourish in a structured, values-based environment that supports both moral and intellectual growth. Our core values—to educate, to form, and to serve—are lived out daily through high academic standards, the cultivation of virtuous habits, and a vibrant Catholic culture. Guided by our motto, Semper Altius—Always Higher—we inspire students to pursue excellence in all areas of life, forming Christian leaders ready to transform the world."
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"As a growing school, MBCA makes intentional tradeoffs to remain faithful to its mission—choosing depth over breadth in these foundational years. Rather than offering a wide range of extracurriculars or modern electives, we currently focus on the mastery of core academic subjects, personal discipline, and deep spiritual formation. This approach supports our core values: to educate, to form, and to serve. While we plan to expand co-curricular offerings as the school grows, our present priorities include small class sizes, faculty trained in classical Catholic education, and a rich sacramental life—including daily prayer, regular Mass, and Confession. We invest in high-quality literature, the humanities, and meaningful family involvement to foster a cohesive and holistic educational environment. Though some broader program options are limited at this stage, every element is intentionally designed to nurture intellectual excellence, moral virtue, and a fully Catholic worldview."
"In January 1983 Bishop Hamilton School opens a not for profit Christian school with 6 Casa students. The school is named after the first Anglican bishop of Ottawa, the Right Reverend Charles Hamilton. In 1997 BHS celebrates 15 years, with over 230 students, toddler to grade 8.
In 2005 founder and Principal, Elaine Hopkins retires & Alison Goss is the School Director. In 2008 BHMS celebrates 25 years and the school became Bishop Hamilton Montessori School. In 2010 Renette Sasouni becomes the School Director. In 2015 BHMS opens an Infant program. In 2023, BHMS celebrates 40 years!"
"Mater Boni Consilii Academy was founded in 2013 by a group of Catholic educators and families committed to restoring authentic Catholic education in Ontario. Born during a time of cultural and educational uncertainty, the school emerged as a response to growing concerns about the secularization of curriculum and the weakening of Catholic identity in many educational institutions. This founding moment continues to shape our mission: to offer a rigorous Catholic liberal arts education that integrates faith, reason, and virtue. A major milestone came with the adoption of the Integral Formation® model, which formalized our commitment to forming the whole person—intellectually, spiritually, humanly, and apostolically. Each year, MBCA has expanded in enrolment and grade levels, laying a foundation for future growth and witness to the desire for our mission. These early decisions continue to define our brand as a school committed to forming Christian leaders who live the motto Semper Altius."
"Bishop Hamilton Montessori School prepares students to live in the real world. Our students become leaders, lifelong learners, and independent thinkers who have a social conscious and a secure relationship with God. These qualities are possible due to our strong partnership with parents. Families who get the most out of their time in our school are families who share the same values."
"Students who thrive at Mater Boni Consilii Academy are those who are curious, respectful, and eager to grow in a love for learning. They benefit most from a structured, values-based environment that prioritizes academic excellence, spiritual formation, and personal virtue. The school is an ideal fit for families who desire a deeply Catholic education rooted in tradition, and who see parents as the primary educators of their children. Families who value discipline, meaningful faith practice, and close collaboration with teachers will find MBCA’s approach especially rewarding. Students flourish when they are supported at home in living the faith, striving for high standards, and embracing the school’s mission to form Christian leaders who aim Semper Altius—Always Higher."
Information not available
"Mater Boni Consilii Academy may not suit families seeking robust extracurriculars, as programs are limited in its foundational years. It does not yet offer high school or the Ontario (OSSD) accreditation, so those prioritizing provincial curriculum alignment may find a mismatch. The school’s deeply Catholic identity—with daily prayer, weekly Mass, and sacramental life—may not appeal to those preferring a secular or multi-faith environment. There is no bus service or guaranteed before/after-care, which can be challenging for families needing extended hours or transportation. As a small, newly founded community, MBCA offers personal attention and parental involvement but lacks the scale and long-established systems of larger institutions. Families wanting large facilities, or long-standing schools may prefer other options."
"A high percentage of our new families come to us through word of mouth! We appeal to parents who know they want Montessori and want a Christian presence for their children."
"Families choose Mater Boni Consilii Academy for its deeply Catholic, holistic education rooted in the Integral Formation® approach—developing students intellectually, spiritually, humanly, and apostolically. They value daily prayer, sacramental life, and virtue formation woven into academics. Small class sizes allow personalized attention, enabling teachers to know each child well and support their growth. Parents appreciate the emphasis on forming Christian leaders through rigorous academics, moral character development, and service. As the only Catholic independent school in Halton, MBCA offers a unique option for those seeking a private, faith-based alternative. Families often prefer MBCA over other schools because it combines strong academics with intentional faith formation and a close-knit community—something they feel is missing in less mission-driven environments. The distinctive blend of faith, academic quality, and personal care is the school’s primary draw."
"New families come to us through word of mouth! We are known for our strong Montessori, Christian programming."
"Mater Boni Consilii Academy is widely perceived as a small, mission-driven, independent Catholic school distinguished by its unwavering commitment to forming both the minds and hearts of its students. MBCA embodies a close-knit, values-centered community in which faith is not a peripheral feature, but the very foundation of daily life. The Academy is associated with strong moral and spiritual formation, highly personalized attention made possible through small class sizes, and a welcoming, family-like environment that fosters belonging. Its Catholic identity is deliberate and unmistakable, evident in the rhythm of daily prayer, regular reception of the sacraments, and an intentional emphasis on cultivating virtuous, service-oriented leaders. While the school’s broader reality encompasses rigorous academics and comprehensive human development, the prevailing public image is that of a nurturing, mission-focused institution."
Information not available
"An underappreciated aspect of Mater Boni Consilii Academy is the depth of its Integral Formation® approach, especially as it is applied through each student’s personalized formation plan. While families notice that MBCA educates the “whole child,” they may not fully grasp the transformative effect of a unified framework that integrates intellectual, spiritual, human, and apostolic growth. These personalized plans allow teachers to set clear, individualized goals, nurture each child’s strengths, and address areas for growth in a deliberate, measurable way. This is far more than an academic program with faith elements—it is a comprehensive formation process shaping habits of mind, heart, and character that last a lifetime. Families may appreciate the small classes and faith-filled culture, yet often undervalue how sustained, individualized guidance profoundly develops a student’s confidence, moral clarity, leadership, and lifelong commitment to living out their Catholic faith."
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"Many families are pleasantly surprised by how deeply and intentionally their child’s growth is supported at Mater Boni Consilii Academy. While parents may expect a strong Catholic environment and good academics, they often don’t realize just how closely faith, virtue, and leadership development are woven into every part of the school day. Through the school’s Integral Formation® model and personalized formation plans, teachers get to know each student well, set individual goals, and work hand-in-hand with parents to support growth in mind, heart, and character. Parents often notice how quickly their children gain confidence, become more thoughtful and service-oriented, and feel truly part of a warm, caring community. They soon discover that MBCA isn’t just about teaching Catholic values—it’s about living them every day, creating an environment that transforms their child in ways they hadn’t expected."
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"Mater Boni Consilii Academy has recently implemented key improvements that embody our commitment to rigorous, faith-based education. We have strengthened our team by hiring new staff who share our mission and bring valuable expertise, enhancing personalized student formation. Our curriculum resources have been upgraded with an intentional focus on meeting RC Education accreditation standards and parent/student needs, ensuring a comprehensive and integrated academic program. To support sustainable growth, we are revitalizing our Board of Directors by adding experienced members and investing in their professional development, improving governance and strategic leadership. Additionally, we have formed a property development team dedicated to securing our own permanent campus, which will provide a stable environment for community-building and program expansion."
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"Mater Boni Consilii Academy is focused on strategic growth over the next five years through targeted initiatives that strengthen our mission and serve families better. We are enhancing awareness by launching targeted social media campaigns, hosting open houses, and forming purposeful partnerships to share our unique educational model. To grow enrollment, we are streamlining admissions, developing scholarship programs, and deepening partnerships with local parishes to connect with prospective families. Fundraising efforts are expanding through annual giving campaigns, engaging community events, grant applications, and corporate sponsorships. These efforts will support securing a permanent campus, expanding academic programs, and enriching student formation, ensuring MBCA continues to provide a holistic, personalized Catholic education that meets the evolving needs of our community."
Since opening our doors in 1983, the National Capital Region has come to recognize Bishop Hamilton Montessori School as a leader in education beginning at 3 months of age and continuing through to grade eight.
As School Director, I am proud of our student-body and the BHMS community at large. The school community has created an environment that strives for excellence not only within the classroom but also when looking outwards to the world around them. BHMS students and graduates come to appreciate the vast and diverse world around them through studying different cultures and through participating in charities both locally and internationally.
The value of learning Christian principles and charity in the context of a multicultural and religiously diverse student body prepares students to partake fully in the Canadian cultural mosaic. By stressing the importance and interconnectedness of people around the world, students also learn about the interconnectedness of the subjects that they study, thus fortifying BHMS’s academic excellence. Through this model, students aspire to become well-rounded citizens from an early age; this aspiration serves to motivate students to develop a passion and hunger for knowledge that they will carry with them through life.
Selecting a school that focuses on your child’s academic, social and spiritual growth is one of the most important decisions that you will make. Bishop Hamilton Montessori School looks forward to partnering with you every step of the way.
Together we can unlock your child’s potential.
Dear Parents of Prospective Students,
At Mater Boni Consilii Academy, our mission is to form the next generation of Christian leaders; young people with hearts and minds rooted in truth, guided by faith, and prepared to flourish in an ever-changing world. As Head of School, my vision is to lead a community where students not only excel academically, but also grow in faith, virtue, curiosity, and a deep sense of purpose.
Our academy is shaped by three guiding principles: to educate, to form, and to serve. We educate by fostering a love of learning and a commitment to academic excellence. We form by nurturing the character, virtues, and faith that help each child become who they are called to be. We serve by instilling a spirit of generosity and responsibility toward others, both within our school and beyond it.
Education is most transformative when it nurtures the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Our unique approach of Integral Formation© is designed to balance intellectual formation with moral development, fostering young people who are not only capable and confident, but compassionate and resilient.
At Mater Boni Consilii Academy, we are building more than a school; we are building the faithful leaders of tomorrow and thoughtful citizens who will shape the future with wisdom and grace.
I invite you to discover the difference of a learning community where faith illuminates every path, and where each student is inspired to become the person they were created to be.
I invite you to learn more about our school. Please contact us to schedule a tour, we'd love to meet your family and introduce you to Mater Boni Consilii Academy!
God bless,
Michael Aguiar
Head of School
Liberal Arts
Information not available
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.
Liberal Arts curricula share with traditional programs their emphasis on core knowledge-acquisition, but tend to borrow more best practices from the progressive approach. A Liberal Arts program might still feature group work and projects, for example, contrary to the more singular emphasis on tests and essays at a Traditional program.
Not applicable
BHMS offers a Christian based Montessori education in a safe community where infants to young adolescents are encouraged to reach their full developmental potential.
Our goal is to provide the highest quality education while nurturing authentic Christian leaders. We offer a rigorous, faith-centered curriculum that sets high yet achievable academic standards, helping students build strong foundational skills in reading, writing, math, and critical thinking. Our students develop essential habits such as curiosity, perseverance, and a love of learning. They benefit from a positive, faith-filled environment alongside like-minded peers, enriched by a variety of activities that support their growth. Our caring educators provide personalized attention to help each child discover and develop their unique God-given talents. Through leadership and character-building opportunities, we focus on spiritual and personal formation, fostering confidence, kindness, and maturity. Graduates of our school emerge as young boys and girls of integrity and faith, well-prepared academically and grounded in Christian values, ready to thrive in high school and beyond.
Equal Balance
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
The math materials, like all other classroom materials, focus first on the concrete and then move toward abstraction. Students first focus on the numbers one to ten, mastering quantity, then the symbol and finally associating the two. A complete comprehension of this first stage is essential as it lays a solid foundation for future work in the decimal system. Students are exposed to the operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division before they leave the Casa program. There are five strands in the Ontario Grade 7 & 8 Curriculum. Our program meets and exceeds the requirements for both levels, not only by incorporating material from grade 9, but also by requiring students to conduct higher order thinking in math seminar and math projects.
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Balanced Literacy
Systematic-phonics programs teach young children to read by helping them to recognize and sound out the letters and syllables of words. Students are then led to blend these sounds together to sound out and recognize the whole word. While other reading programs might touch on phonetics (either incidentally or on a “when needed” basis), systematic phonics teaches phonics in a specific sequence, and uses extensive repetition and direct instruction to help readers associate specific letter patterns with their associated sounds.
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
In the language portion of the curriculum Casa students begin by identifying sounds and later associating them with letters. Later, students apply this knowledge to phonics and reading. In the Montessori system students first learn to write and then to read.
Information not available
Equal balance
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
Information not available
Information not available
Equal Balance
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
Science is an integral part of the Montessori classroom curriculum from Casa through Junior High. As students join the Senior Elementary classroom they are introduced to an enriched science program conducted by the science specialist in a carefully designed student-friendly laboratory. In this environment students conduct a variety of experiments, learning about such topics as biology, physics, optics, anatomy, astronomy, genetics, and aerodynamics. This hands-on approach to learning what is often only taught through textbooks instills in students a passion for exploration and discovery. Since research at BHMS is not limited by age, only by imagination, students are able to conduct independent research on topics of personal interest. They then present their conclusions in local and regional science fairs where BHMS consistently rates among the top schools in the region.
Information not available
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Not applicable
Equal Balance
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
Information not available
Information not available
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Core Knowledge
Usually focused on teaching history and geography at an early age, the core knowledge approach uses story, drama, reading, and discussion to teach about significant people, places, and events. Breadth of content and knowledge is emphasized. The curriculum is often organized according to the underlying logic of the content: history might be taught sequentially, for example (as students move through the grades).
Usually focused on teaching history and geography at an early age, the core knowledge approach uses story, drama, reading, and discussion to teach about significant people, places, and events. Breadth of content and knowledge is emphasized. The curriculum is often organized according to the underlying logic of the content: history might be taught sequentially, for example (as students move through the grades).
Throughout the elementary program students are exposed with increasing detail to the Great Stories: Creation of the Universe, Timeline of Life, Timeline of Humans, The Story of Numbers and The Story of Language. Montessori lessons address reading, writing, mathematics, geometry, physics, chemistry, biology, economics, history, art, geology and geography. The Montessori concepts and skills development are an enriched program with a lot of scope.
Information not available
Equal Balance
Pragmatism in the humanities and social sciences emphasizes making learning relevant to students’ present-day experience. Assignments tend to centre around projects and tasks rather than argumentative essays; these projects will often have a “real-world” application or relevance. There might be more of a social justice component to a pragmatic program, though that isn’t always the case. Subjects like history and philosophy are still covered/offered, but they play a less prominent role in the overall program than in the case of perennialism. The social sciences (contemporary geography, sociology, psychology, etc), meanwhile, might play a more prominent role in pragmatic programs. The key goals are to make learning progressive and relevant, while teaching students real-life skills and critical thinking.
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
BHMS offers an adolescent program within the context of the regular Montessori school, providing a supportive learning environment specially tailored to meet the needs of adolescents. Happy and healthy teenage experiences are essential for developing the coping skills and knowledge for successful adulthood. To this end, the integrated program of study for the BHMS Junior High follows Dr. Montessori’s Educational Syllabus for the adolescent: Self Expression: Music, Writing Workshops & Language Arts, Art, Physical Education Psychic Development: Moral Education, Mathematics, Languages (French) Preparation for Adult Life: Study of the Earth & Living Things (Physical Geography, Biology, Anatomy, Astronomy) Study of Human Progress & the Development of Civilization (Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, Genetics, History of Science & Technology) Study of History of Humanity (History of Exploration & Settlement, Political Geography, Environmental Studies, Religion, Peace & Conflict Studies, Law & Government, Literature/ Novel Study, National history & Current Events).
Information not available
Equal Balance
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
The study of French is of utmost importance at Bishop Hamilton Montessori School where students begin their daily language study while still in the Casa program. As students progress through the levels their mastery of the language intensifies as does their understanding of Francophone culture and literature. Harnessing Ottawa’s geographic location and bilingual nature the French program conducts field-trips, culminating in annual trips to visit nearby Francophone cities of Montreal and Quebec in grades six through eight. Students graduating from grade eight of the Junior High program have successfully completed the French immersion language curriculum that is introduced at grade 10 in the public immersion system. By moulding students’ linguistic capabilities from such a tender age, and in small-group settings, they are able to become fully assimilated into the bilingual mosaic of Canada’s National Capital Region.
French is taught Grade 3 to Grade 8.
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Information not available
Equal Balance
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
Beginning in the Casa level and beyond, students meet with the Music Specialist where they are introduced gradually to music theory and expression. In grade 4 students begin exploring different musical instruments and, later, are integrated into the school band. Additionally, vocal skills are honed and refined through learning and performing choral music. The BHMS passion for music and performance is evidenced through annual concerts that bring together students of all ages, as well as the staging of some popular musicals, complete with set design, costuming, and theatrics, all developed by the students. Creative expression is an important outlet for students. The Art curriculum aims to inspire students to express feelings, ideas, and issues using a variety of medians such as: two and three dimensional forms and Multimedia Art. Students learn to apply the critical analysis process to communicate feelings, ideas and understanding of Socio-cultural and Historical Contexts.
Information not available
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Medium integration
Computers are used in the classroom from time to time, but integrating technology into everything students do is not a dominant focus. Digital literacy is understood to be a legitimate skill in the 21st century, but not one that should distract from teaching the subject at hand, or more fundamental skills and literacies. The idea is today’s students, being “digital natives”, are likely exposed to computers and new media enough outside the classroom: the role of the school, rather, should be to develop competencies that may otherwise get missed.
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Information not available
Information not available
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Students at BHMS learn from a young age that a healthy mind thrives in a healthy body. Once students reach the third year of Casa they progress to classes lead by the physical education specialist in our gym or outside. These classes, taught three times weekly, teach the importance of exercise as part of a routine, the rules of certain sports and good sportsmanship. Students participate in city-wide sporting events as well as in athletic competitions with other schools. The Junior High Physical and Health Education program, taught in French and English, introduces a variety of sports, games, and outdoor pursuits. We participate in cross-country running, soccer, floor hockey, track and field, as well as, an extensive cycling program. The health curriculum uses the Ontario curriculum documents as a guide.
Physical education is an integral part of our program. We provide our students with exposure to many sports and outdoor education opportunities. Our goal is to foster healthy attitudes and provide our students with life skills. Athletics and outdoor education provide character formation opportunities. Our youngest students focus on developing gross and fine motor skills with the help of a certified PE instructor via our local YMCA center.
Academic
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.
Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.
Students progress and learn at their own pace. For this reason fast learners are not held back and slower learners are not frustrated by their inability to keep up. Classrooms consist of mixed ages 3 to 6 and provide a family life setting where learning takes place naturally. This approach recognizes learning as a social process and provides opportunities for older students to mentor the younger ones. The curriculum develops spoken and written language, reading, mathematics, the natural sciences and the arts.
Mater Boni Consilii Academy’s Junior and Senior Kindergarten programs introduce children ages 4–5 to a hands-on, structured learning environment that nurtures curiosity and social development. Our curriculum emphasizes collaboration, creative thinking, and foundational literacy and numeracy skills, including reading, printing, addition, and subtraction. Students engage in one-on-one, small group, and whole-class activities that promote social skills such as active listening, following directions, and caring for others. Integrated with early Catholic faith formation, the program helps shepherd young learners into elementary school with confidence, a love for learning, and a strong sense of community.
Standard-enriched
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.
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.
Rigorous
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.
A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.
The School works collaboratively with parents teachers and students to foster the development of each child. The outcome of this partnership is our Portrait of a Graduate which consists of following skills and attributes: academically prepared, leader, independent thinker, intrinsically motivated, socially responsible, respecter of all persons, competent learner, confident, creative thinker, collaborative worker, protector the environment, engaged community citizen, secure with their relationship with God. Portrait of a Graduate illustrates the skills and attributes BHMS students can develop when parents and teachers work collaboratively to foster the development of their child’s academic, social, emotional, and spiritual development.
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Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Spiritual
The goal is to cultivate "individuals with inner resourcefulness, strong faith and respect for God or a higher power."
Spiritual
The goal is to cultivate "individuals with inner resourcefulness, strong faith and respect for God or a higher power."
The academic, spiritual, physical and social growth of each student is achieved through two methods: the Christian message of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd and the Montessori approach as outlined by the Association Montessori Internationale and the Canadian Council of Montessori Administrators (CCMA).
Our mission is to provide the highest quality education and foster integrally formed Christian leaders. We focus on four dimensions: intellectual, human, spiritual, and apostolic. We strive to teach, in an environment of academic excellence; to form the heart, helping each student to love authentic values and to develop a sense of what is good, right, noble, beautiful; and to form the character, which serves as the foundation of all virtue and integrity. Our graduates become strong Christian leaders, convinced of the truth, prepared and committed to establish and foster a society where Christian values are put into practice.
FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIESA - Forms of SupportAccommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - EnvironmentsIndirect Support:
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:
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| Forms of Support | Environments | Forms of Support | Environments | |
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ADHD (moderate to severe)
This is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Children with ADHD may be hyperactive and unable control their impulses. Or they may have trouble paying attention. These behaviors can interfere with school and home life.
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| Learning disabilities | ||||
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Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability)
This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment.
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Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)
This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language.
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Dyscalculia
This is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money.
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Dysgraphia
This is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.
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Language Processing Disorder
This is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.
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Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD)
These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills.
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Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit
A characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination.
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Autism
Refers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome).
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Asperger's Syndrome
On the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour.
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Down syndrome
his is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.
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Intellectual disability
This is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation).
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Williams syndrome
This is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems.
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Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems.
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Troubled behaviour / troubled teens
roubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety.
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Clinical Depression
This is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life.
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Clinical anxiety
This is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror.
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Suicidal thoughts
This involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.
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Drug and alcohol abuse
This involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning.
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Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning.
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Multiple sclerosis
This is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties.
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Cerebral palsy
his refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture.
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Muscular dystrophy
Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.
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Spina Bifida
This is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine.
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Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder)
This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech.
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Blindness
Visual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness."
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Deafness
Hearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds).
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Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults.
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Multiple physical
Accommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.
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Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Accommodations
Modifications
Extra support
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
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Our desire is to meet all students' educational needs while at school. Please note, as a private school we do not have the resources, nor the support to provide the necessary programming and education for children with special learning needs, learning disabilities or Individual Program Plans (IPP’s).
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CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
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Badminton |
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Baseball |
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Basketball |
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Canoeing/Kayaking |
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Cricket |
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Cross-country skiing |
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Cycling |
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Downhill skiing |
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Equestrian |
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Fencing |
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Field Hockey |
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Figure Skating |
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Football |
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Golf |
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Gymnastics |
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Ice Hockey |
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Ice Skating |
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Lacrosse |
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Martial Arts |
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Mountain biking |
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Racquet Ball |
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Rowing |
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Rugby |
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Running |
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Sailing |
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Skateboarding |
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Snowboarding |
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Soccer |
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Softball |
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Squash |
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Swimming |
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Tennis |
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Track & Field |
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Volleyball |
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Weightlifting |
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Wrestling |
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Archery |
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Curling |
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Ultimate |
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
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
1 - 8
0%
0%
$0
$0
99%
0%
Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - 8
Yes: grades JK - 8
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
Mater Boni Consilii Academy looks for students who are eager learners with a genuine curiosity and openness to growing intellectually, spiritually, and personally. Ideal students demonstrate respect, kindness, and a willingness to engage actively in a faith-filled community. They show readiness to embrace both academic challenges and moral formation, with a positive attitude toward learning and collaboration. Because the school emphasizes Integral Formation®, successful students are those who are receptive to developing habits of discipline, perseverance, and leadership rooted in Christian values. Families who share the school’s commitment to Catholic faith and character development also play a crucial role in supporting their child’s success. Overall, MBCA seeks students ready to thrive in a nurturing environment that balances rigorous academics with spiritual growth and community engagement.
We admit students throughout the school year if space is available. The admission process at BHMS consists of the following: A School Tour following the initial inquiry, provides parents with an opportunity to visit our school, see our facility, and meet with our staff. The Director of Admissions will provide prospective parents with a Parent Information Package and review its contents. The Information Package contains information about our school and includes: BHMS Program Guide, Parent Handbook, Parent/School Partnership Agreement, Financial Handbook, Application for Enrolment and information about School Uniforms. A meeting with the School Director is held who will address additional parent inquires and determine a mutual fit for the family and BHMS. The decision for acceptance of enrolment to BHMS is made by the School Director. Parents inform BHMS Director of Admissions their intent to enrol and complete the Application for Enrolment. Director of Admissions forwards Enrolment Contract for parent review and coordinates a meeting with parents to finalize enrolment.
Inquiry & Tour
Prospective families begin by submitting an inquiry form. The Admissions Office will then reach out to schedule a personalized tour of the school.
Application & Evaluation
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis year-round, with mid-year enrollment available. Academic readiness is assessed during an Evaluation Day tailored for students entering Grades 1 through 8. An academic assessment is then provided for the family and a copy remains in the students file for reference.
Parent Interview
Families participate in a one-on-one interview with school administration to discuss their aspirations and determine mutual fit.
Notification of Acceptance
Admission decisions generally occur within two to three weeks after all documents are received. Once accepted, families receive an enrollment contract to formalize registration.