531 Finch Ave. W., North York, Ontario, M2R 3X2, Canada
909 Mt Pleasant Road, Toronto, Ontario, M4P 2Z6, CanadaIndirect Support:
531 Finch Ave. W., North York, Ontario, M2R 3X2, Canada
909 Mt Pleasant Road, Toronto, Ontario, M4P 2Z6, Canada
5,693.0 km
5,689.8 km
1953
1994
450
133
JK to 12
Nursery/Toddler to 4
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Traditional
Montessori
15
10 to 25
Learning, Developmental, Behavioral
Learning, Developmental
In-class adaptations
$10,000 to $16,000
$17,609 to $30,104
Yes
No
18%
0%
JK to 12
None
$900
$0
30
15
0%
0%
0%
100%
information not available
Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, 1, 2, 3, 4
information not available
information not available
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades JK - 12
Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - 4
No
No
information not available
information not available
Crawford is one of those schools that, for whatever reason, has flown a bit below the radar. It was established in 1953 with a dedication to providing a close-knit learning environment based in Christian teaching. The community is a highlight, to be sure, and while families are attracted to the academic program, and the values that inform it, it’s the community that alumni speak of first as the thing they appreciated most while there. Spaces are clean, open, and the campus has a welcome polished feel. While not an international school per se, students are attracted from overseas, and homestay programs are arranged in partnership with the school. The international students add a diversity to the population, and add dimension to the student experience. The ideal student is one preparing to advance to university programs in North America.
View full reportFor more than 30 years, Manor Montessori School has provided an authentic Montessori education focused on building strong academic foundations during the early years of development. Manor's Montessori programs are designed to build progressively, and by the end of the Casa program, students have developed strong foundational skills that prepare them for success in elementary school and beyond. The school's commitment to authentic Montessori education is reflected in its use of Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) principles, AMI-approved materials, and AMI-certified Casa teachers. Learning is further enriched through specialist programs, extracurricular activities, music, art, and regular field trips. A distinguishing feature of Manor Montessori is its French program. Casa students participate in small-group French lessons several times each week, while Elementary students receive daily instruction and can participate in a French drama club, helping prepare them for French immersion opportunities in later grades. In addition to academics, there is a strong emphasis on grace, courtesy, and kindness, encouraging students to develop respect, confidence, independence, and positive relationships within a supportive learning environment.
View full report
"My experience at Crawford was transformational."
Kimberley Springer - Alumnus (Mar 09, 2021)
My experience at Crawford was transformational. I had the opportunity to learn practical life skills... View full review
information not available
"Established in 1953, Crawford is committed to the holistic development of our students through academic excellence, spiritual nurture, enhancement of social & physical abilities. With an emphasis in music, science, technology, sports, we are a balanced, co-ed family of schools - campus locations in North York (Main JK-12), Pickering (East JK-8) & Mississauga (Peel JK-8) - that successfully develops students for post-secondary education & their chosen career path and to remain committed to a lifestyle of service."
"At Manor Montessori, programs are thoughtfully designed to build on each other, creating a strong foundation for success at every stage. With long-tenured, experienced staff across two North Toronto campuses, we offer a connected Montessori experience grounded in authentic AMI principles and materials. A focus on early reading, writing, math, low ratios, and an outstanding French program. Manor is an authentic educational environment for all our students ages 18m–Gr. 4—where children reach their full potential."
"We blend rigorous academics with the values of Christian character education, developing both the minds and hearts of our students. Our Christ-centred approach is linked with smaller class sizes and personalized instruction, ensuring that teachers are attuned to each student’s unique strengths and aspirations. We prioritize active participation in music, sports, and science, utilizing extracurricular opportunities to reinforce leadership, teamwork, and responsibility. Distinctively, our school culture encourages community engagement and service, with students actively involved in music ministry and outreach projects. Through holistic education, including spiritual growth, critical thinking, and physical activity, we prepare students to excel academically and become compassionate, effective leaders, surpassing the boundaries of traditional schooling."
"At Manor Montessori, we educate the whole child. While strong academics are a priority, we place equal emphasis on developing resilience, independence, confidence, and emotional well-being. Through authentic Montessori materials, a carefully prepared environment, and individualized guidance, students learn by doing, exploring, and progressing at their own pace. Teachers know each child well and provide the right balance of challenge and support. Instead of relying on external rewards or pressure, children develop intrinsic motivation, problem-solving skills, self-discipline, and a genuine love of learning. This approach helps reduce anxiety, builds confidence through mastery, and encourages students to take responsibility for their learning and persevere through challenges.
The result is that Manor graduates are academically strong, confident, adaptable, and resilient—ready for wherever they go next, whether that is a private school, French Immersion program, or their community school."
"To maintain small class sizes and provide personalized, holistic Christian education, we focus resources on critical programs, music, science, athletics, and faith formation, occasionally limiting the range of specialized electives or luxury amenities. This ensures depth and quality in student experiences and community engagement."
"At Manor Montessori, our commitment to authentic Montessori education and whole-child development requires intentional tradeoffs.
We prioritize individualized, self-paced learning over standardized, whole-class pacing. Students progress when they are developmentally ready, which means learning paths differ but mastery is deeper and more secure.
We also prioritize hands-on Montessori materials over worksheets, testing, and heavy use of digital programs. This builds stronger conceptual understanding and long-term retention, even though it may look less traditional.
In the early years, we limit the role of technology in favour of real-world, sensory, and experiential learning, supporting focus, independence, and communication.
Finally, we balance academics with emotional development and independence. We believe this leads to more resilient, confident, and capable learners in the long term."
"Crawford Adventist Academy’s journey began in 1953, when the Willowdale Seventh-day Adventist Church opened Toronto Junior Academy to serve the educational needs of its children. The addition of a purpose-built facility, made possible by the generosity of Dr. Erwin Crawford, set the stage for growth and innovation, and his name became an inspiration for the school's identity. In 1978, the creation of the Toronto Adventist District School Board united local Adventist churches in a shared vision for holistic education, providing stability, resources, and governance as the school expanded. Responding to community demands, the academy added junior high and high school grades in the early 1980s. The 1990s and 2000s saw further milestones as new campuses opened in Pickering (East) and Mississauga (Peel), allowing Crawford to serve a growing and diverse student body. Each expansion reflected Crawford’s core mission: to deliver Christ-centred, whole-person education for students across the Gre"
"Manor Montessori’s identity is rooted in grassroots beginnings and steady, intentional growth within the community. The school began in a local church space, where Dana Stewart and Janet Miklas built a program grounded in authentic Montessori principles, educating the whole child and a clear academic focus supporting every child’s success.
As demand grew, a key milestone was the purchase of the South DeSavery location in 2003, allowing the school to better serve an expanding community while maintaining its hands-on, child-centred approach. Continued growth led to the 2015 purchase of the North Mt. Pleasant property.
Throughout this evolution, Manor Montessori has remained committed to educating the whole child through individualized, experiential learning and strong academic foundations. From its grassroots beginnings to today, the school has grown thoughtfully, prioritizing educational integrity and authentic Montessori principles."
"Crawford Adventist Academy is ideal for students and families who value a well-rounded, faith-based education integrating academic rigour with spiritual, musical, and athletic pursuits. Students who engage deeply in community service, appreciate small class environments, and actively nurture personal integrity and leadership skills thrive here. We welcome those eager to ask questions, seek growth beyond academics, and show respect for diversity. Students do not have to be Seventh-day Adventist, but must be open to a Christ-centred environment. A genuine desire to contribute positively, embrace service opportunities, and balance study with extracurricular involvement are key indicators of fit within our supportive and caring school community."
"Manor Montessori is welcoming to all students. The strongest indicator of fit is alignment of values and expectations with our families.
Families who thrive in our community value a whole-child approach to education. They understand that strong academics develop alongside independence, resilience, confidence, and emotional well-being. They appreciate that Montessori is a journey—through hands-on learning, repetition, and engagement.
These families trust individualized learning and are comfortable with children progressing at different rates. They value an environment where children are guided to think for themselves, take responsibility, and develop independence in age-appropriate ways.
At Manor Montessori, we are not only teaching academic skills—we help children learn how to learn. Families who align with this philosophy recognize the long-term benefits of raising confident, self-directed learners who are happy, resilient, and ready to succeed in whatever path they pursue."
"If a family prefers an academically focused institution without integration of Christian principles, Crawford may not align with their desires. Our curriculum is Christ-centred, and participation in religious activities is integral. Those looking for highly specialized academic or extracurricular tracks, such as extensive Advanced Placement courses or elite athletic programs, may not find their preferences met. Families uncomfortable with regular faith-based instruction, required community service, or engagement in music and the arts may feel out of place. Furthermore, if a student is disinclined toward community engagement, active participation, or upholding our core values of service and respect, alternate schools may better accommodate their educational needs and values."
"Manor Montessori may not be the best fit for families seeking a highly structured, traditional teacher-directed program with uniform pacing, frequent testing, and/or early academic pressure. Our approach is individualized, so children progress at their own pace rather than as a group.
We do not rely on worksheets, test-heavy learning, or a highly technology-driven classroom, which may differ from some families’ expectations. We prioritize hands-on learning, exploration, and mastery through experience. We allow students to make mistakes and learn from them, and we guide rather than lecture or instruct directly.
Montessori encourages independence, choice, and self-regulation, which requires comfort with children taking increasing responsibility for their learning and behaviour. Our school also supports children developing at different rates, which can be challenging for families who prefer standardized timelines, as we focus on individual growth over uniform progression."
"Families are drawn to Crawford Adventist Academy by our holistic, Christ-centred education, which consistently yields high academic achievement, a compassionate peer culture, and a strong sense of community. Our proven record for university acceptance, individualized attention in small classes, and rich musical and athletic programs attract those looking for comprehensive student growth. Active engagement in service and a supportive, nurturing ethos that prioritizes both spiritual and academic development make our school stand out as a trusted, well-rounded choice."
"Families choose Manor Montessori for our authentic Montessori principles, strong academics, and whole-child approach. They value an environment that balances academic excellence with independence, confidence, and emotional development.
Our experienced, long-tenured staff and strong leadership are also key reasons families trust us. Together, they ensure consistent, high-quality instruction grounded in deep understanding of child development and Montessori philosophy.
Families are also influenced by the results they see in current students and alumni—children who are confident, capable, and well prepared for a range of future pathways. They leave with strong academic foundations as well as the ability to think independently and adapt.
Manor is not an ordinary private school. It builds a foundation for learning for life, preparing students to thrive wherever they go next."
"Crawford Adventist Academy enjoys a strong reputation in the community as a trusted provider of Christian education. We are recognized for our unwavering commitment to academic excellence, character building, and service. The public perceives us as producing well-rounded graduates who succeed academically, contribute positively to their communities, and demonstrate spiritual maturity. Our music and sports involvement are highly regarded, and our supportive environment attracts families desiring a safe, constructive learning setting. Relationships built with local churches and community organizations further validate our standing as an institution dedicated to both scholastic and societal betterment, making us a preferred option for holistic education."
"Manor Montessori is widely recognized as an authentic Montessori school that combines strong academics with a genuine focus on the whole child. In the public eye, the school is known for providing a calm, nurturing, and purposeful learning environment where children develop independence, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.
When people think of Manor Montessori, they often associate the school with experienced and dedicated educators, small class sizes, individualized attention, strong student outcomes, and a warm, close-knit community. Families value the school's commitment to authentic Montessori principles, its emphasis on character development and leadership, and the visible growth they see in their children academically, socially, and emotionally."
"Our robust music program is often underrecognized for the transformative impact it has on student confidence and community connection. From early grades, students engage in music lessons and ensemble performances at church services and public events, encouraging teamwork, discipline, and expression. Another underappreciated area is our deep focus on early literacy, which sees even Senior Kindergarten students achieving reading skills well above the norm, providing a foundation for long-term academic success. The seamless integration of faith with curriculum, where values, service, and academics reinforce each other, may also go unnoticed compared to standardized achievements. Families who choose us often comment on the strong bonds formed, the genuine care among staff and peers, and the real-world readiness their children gain."
"One aspect of Manor Montessori that is often underappreciated is the depth of learning opportunities beyond the Montessori classroom. While families recognize our nurturing environment and strong academics, they may not fully appreciate the strength of our French program, the richness of our Elementary program, and the variety of clubs and enrichment opportunities available to students.
Our French program helps students build confidence and communication skills from an early age. The Elementary program offers challenging academics, leadership opportunities, collaborative projects, and hands-on learning that foster independence and critical thinking. Clubs, athletics, arts, and enrichment activities further support confidence, creativity, friendships, and personal growth, creating a truly well-rounded educational experience."
"The high university acceptance rate, despite our moderate school size, often impresses newcomers. They may not expect the breadth and quality of music and sports opportunities, or the warmth of our close-knit, supportive school community, all distinguishing features that set us apart from typical private schools."
"Families are often surprised by the depth of care, commitment, and individualized support their children receive at Manor Montessori. While they may expect strong academics and authentic Montessori education, they quickly discover how deeply our educators know each child and how invested we are in helping every student succeed. We take responsibility for understanding how each child learns and finding ways to support them so they can learn, grow, and thrive alongside their peers.
Many families are also surprised by the power of the Montessori three-year cycle. What can sometimes look like small, incremental steps in the early years is actually part of a carefully designed learning journey. Whether learning to read, write, solve complex math concepts, or build independence, each skill builds upon the last. By the end of the cycle, families often see remarkable growth and recognize how those foundational experiences led to significant, lasting achievement."
"Crawford Adventist Academy has invested in the improvement and expansion of our facilities, including updated classrooms and gymnasiums across campuses. Recent upgrades in technology have enhanced both teaching and student learning. Our music and science programs have been expanded, and new wellness and academic support systems have been implemented to address students’ evolving needs. Additionally, safety and accessibility improvements ensure our campuses remain inviting and secure. These enhancements reflect a continued commitment to high-quality, holistic education."
"Over the past few years, Manor Montessori has continued to evolve thoughtfully to meet the needs of our students and families while staying true to our Montessori values. Two years ago, we celebrated our 30th anniversary with school community events and a refreshed rebranding that honoured our history and reflects our continued growth.
We are also enhancing our learning environments and student experience. A current key project is the development of a new gym space in the basement at our DeSavery location, further supporting movement, physical education, and whole-child development.
Academically, we are continually refining and strengthening our programs to ensure they remain responsive and relevant."
"In the next five years, Crawford will prioritize further campus upgrades, expand elementary and JK capacity, and enrich reading and STEM initiatives. Plans include broadening community and church partnerships, implementing new leadership programs, and deepening our commitment to personalized student support, ensuring all learners flourish spiritually, academically, and socially."
"Over the next five years, Manor Montessori will continue to deepen its identity as a true Montessori environment while evolving to meet the needs of modern families. Our commitment to authentic Montessori practice will remain central, with a focus on strong academics, independence, and whole-child development across all programs.
We also plan to deepen engagement with our parent community through parenting talks, workshops, and/or events that help families better support their growing children.
We will continue to refine our programs and environments, strengthening our impact while staying true to who we are."
information not available
At Manor Montessori School, my work is guided by a deep belief in the development of the whole child—intellectual, emotional, social, and physical. I have always believed that education is not simply about academic achievement, but about nurturing capable, curious, and confident individuals who are grounded, independent, and joyful in their learning.
From the beginning, the vision for Manor was to create something meaningfully different from a traditional classroom model—especially in the foundational years of a child’s development. These early years are when children form their relationship with learning itself. I have always felt they deserve an environment that respects their natural curiosity, supports their independence, and allows them to learn at their own pace.
Manor Montessori was founded in September 1994 with my co-founder and lifelong friend, Janet Miklas, following my early work teaching children in outdoor and skill-based environments and my formal training with the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI). What began as a small school has grown over more than 30 years into a thriving Montessori community.
At its core, Manor Montessori is built on the belief that Montessori education is designed for the child—rooted in Maria Montessori’s observation of how children naturally grow, learn, and develop independence. Children learn best in a carefully prepared environment where materials are introduced in a thoughtful sequence, moving from concrete experiences to abstract understanding. This step-by-step progression allows for deep mastery, confidence, and a genuine love of learning. We are committed to meeting each child where they are and providing the guidance, tools, and environment they need to thrive.
We are fortunate to have a long-tenured team of dedicated educators and a strong, supportive community of families who share our values. Together, we care deeply about children and their development, and we work to ensure every student is supported as a whole person.
We warmly welcome new families to visit and tour our school. It is always a joy to share our classrooms, our approach, and the sense of calm, curiosity, and care that defines daily life at Manor Montessori.
With gratitude,
Dana
Montessori
Information not available
Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.
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.
Not applicable
Manor Montessori offers an authentic Montessori curriculum rooted in hands-on, child-led learning within a carefully prepared environment. The program follows traditional Montessori principles while maintaining a strong academic focus across language, mathematics, science, and cultural studies. Students are supported in building deep understanding through exploration, repetition, and guided discovery. In addition to academics, Manor Montessori emphasizes the development of the whole child, including independence, confidence, social-emotional growth, and executive functioning skills that support lifelong learning. The school is not faith-based and provides an inclusive, secular environment that welcomes families from all backgrounds. A key feature of the program is its strong French curriculum, which offers consistent language exposure and structured instruction alongside English literacy. This bilingual approach enhances communication skills and cognitive development while complementing the Montessori academic framework. Together, these elements create a balanced program that is both rigorous and nurturing, preparing students academically and personally for future success.
Equal Balance
Traditional Math typically teaches a method or algorithm FIRST, and THEN teaches the applications for the method. Traditional algorithms are emphasized and practiced regularly: repetition and drills are frequently used to ensure foundational mastery in the underlying mathematical procedures. The traditional approach to math views math education as akin to building a logical edifice: each brick depends on the support of the previously laid ones, which represent mastery over a particular procedure or method. Traditional Math begins by giving students a tool, and then challenges students to practice using that tool an applied way, with progressively challenging problems. In this sense Traditional Math aims to establish procedural understanding before conceptual and applied understanding.
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
The AMI Montessori Mathematics curriculum is a structured, sequential program that guides children from concrete, hands-on learning to abstract mathematical thinking. Students begin with numeration, exploring quantities and symbols, and then move into the decimal system using materials representing units, tens, hundreds, and thousands. They progress through counting and the four operations—addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division—using materials that build strong conceptual understanding. As they gain mastery, children develop fluency with arithmetic facts and transition toward mental calculation, abstraction, and independent problem solving. Progress is based on readiness and mastery rather than age. In the elementary years, mathematics expands into geometry, algebra, measurement, statistics, graphing, and applied problem solving. Students continue to use materials as needed while increasingly applying abstract reasoning and making connections across mathematical concepts.
Manor Montessori sometimes uses math textbooks in the elementary classroom as a supplementary tool to expose students to traditional math formats. In particular, they help students practice showing their work, read word problems carefully and check their own work.
Calculators are introduced as tools to support and verify mathematical thinking, allowing students to focus on problem-solving and accuracy while building confidence. Across all uses, technology is limited and only integrated thoughtfully to complement hands-on learning and strengthen student understanding.
Phonics-intensive
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.
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.
Information not available
Manor Montessori takes a phonetic, multi-sensory Montessori approach to early reading beginning at 2.5 years of age. Children first build strong phonemic awareness and oral language skills, with an emphasis on “writing before reading” using Sandpaper Letters and the Moveable Alphabet to form words and express ideas. Daily language work guides students from sound recognition to word building, decoding, and early comprehension. Our structured reading series provides carefully sequenced, decodable texts aligned with phonics mastery, supporting steady and confident progression. Reading develops naturally through hands-on materials, storytelling, and individualized instruction, allowing children to move at their own pace while building accuracy and understanding. By the end of Casa, our students are reading with confidence and comprehension, having progressed from early sound work to fluent decoding through consistent practice and mastery-based learning. This approach ensures reading is meaningful, engaging, and rooted in deep understanding rather than memorization.
No
Manor administers the Canadian Achievement Test twice yearly to elementary students to monitor progress and ensure expected academic achievement.
Process approach
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.
The process approach to teaching beginner writing aims to get students writing “real things” as much as possible and as soon as possible. The goal is to create the right environmental conditions to encourage a love of writing and a motivation to write well. With children invested in the writing process -- through assignments children find meaningful -- students are then given feedback on how they can improve.
Information not available
The AMI Montessori approach to writing develops the skills and confidence children need before beginning formal writing with pencil and paper. Rather than relying on worksheets or repetitive copying, writing emerges through purposeful, hands-on experiences that build physical, sensory, and language foundations. Children begin with Practical Life activities such as pouring, spooning, sorting, and polishing, which strengthen hand muscles, coordination, concentration, and control of movement. Pre-writing materials, including Metal Insets and Sandpaper Letters, further prepare the hand and mind by developing pencil control, letter formation, and the connection between sounds and symbols. Children explore writing through movement and multiple sensory pathways, including tracing, sand work, and chalkboard activities. When ready, they naturally transition to pencil writing and begin expressing their own words and ideas. AMI Montessori emphasizes readiness, repetition, and independence, viewing writing as a natural extension of language and communication.
Equal Balance
Expository science is the more traditional method of teaching science: students learn scientific facts, theories, and the relationships between them through direct instruction by the teacher. These programs still incorporate hands-on experimentation and “live science”; however, relative to inquiry-based programs, expository science tilts towards content mastery and knowledge acquisition. Direct instruction ensures this acquisition process is efficient. Textbooks are emphasized (starting in earlier grades than inquiry-based programs), as are knowledge tests: students are asked to demonstrate they have thoroughly learned the content of the course, and can apply that knowledge to novel and challenging problems or questions.
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.
Information not available
AMI Montessori education integrates science throughout the curriculum, encouraging children to explore the natural world through observation, discovery, and hands-on experiences. Rather than treating science as a separate subject, Montessori introduces scientific thinking through everyday exploration and the concept of “cosmic education” — helping children understand their connection to the larger universe. In early childhood (ages 3–6), science is sensory and exploratory. Children classify natural objects such as leaves, stones, and seeds, explore living and non-living things, observe plants and animals, and develop an appreciation for nature through outdoor experiences. During the elementary years (ages 6–12), science expands through cosmic education, exploring the relationships between the universe, Earth, life, and humanity. Students study astronomy, geography, earth science, biology, chemistry, and physics through experiments, materials, and guided research. Children first develop understanding through direct experience before connecting their discoveries to formal scientific concepts and terminology.
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
Zoology
Traditional
In traditional literature programs students focus on decoding the mechanics of texts: plot, characterization, and themes. These texts tend to include a balance of contemporary and “classic” literature. When studying a past work, students investigate its historical context -- but only insofar as this adds understanding to the work itself. Past works are therefore studied “on their own terms”, and not merely as historical artifacts to be deconstructed: traditional literature programs are firmly rooted in the humanities, and carry the belief that great literature can reveal fundamental and universal truths about the human condition. These programs emphasize class discussions and critical essay writing, and aim to develop in students critical thinking, communication skills, and a cultivated taste and ethos.
In traditional literature programs students focus on decoding the mechanics of texts: plot, characterization, and themes. These texts tend to include a balance of contemporary and “classic” literature. When studying a past work, students investigate its historical context -- but only insofar as this adds understanding to the work itself. Past works are therefore studied “on their own terms”, and not merely as historical artifacts to be deconstructed: traditional literature programs are firmly rooted in the humanities, and carry the belief that great literature can reveal fundamental and universal truths about the human condition. These programs emphasize class discussions and critical essay writing, and aim to develop in students critical thinking, communication skills, and a cultivated taste and ethos.
Information not available
At Manor Montessori, students in our elementary program follows a traditional approach that emphasizes understanding the mechanics of texts, including plot, characterization, and themes. Students develop comprehension and critical thinking through book reports and group novel studies, as well as structured class discussions and written responses.
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
Expanding Communities
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).
The Expanding Communities approach organizes the curriculum around students’ present, everyday experience. In the younger grades, students might learn about themselves, for example. As they move through the grades, the focus gradually broadens in scope: to the family, neighbourhood, city, province, country, and globe. The curriculum tends to have less focus on history than Core Knowledge programs.
Information not available
The AMI Montessori social science curriculum is integrated into the broader cultural curriculum rather than taught as a separate subject. In early childhood (0–6), children begin with concrete experiences focused on self, family, classroom community, and respect for others. They explore foundational geography concepts such as land and water, maps, continents, and cultural awareness through everyday experiences like food, clothing, and celebrations. In elementary (6–12), learning expands through the “Great Lessons,” introducing the origins of the universe, Earth, life, and human civilization. Students study history, geography, and culture in greater depth, including ancient civilizations, human migration, landforms, climate, and countries. They also begin exploring civics, economics, and anthropology to understand how societies function. AMI Montessori emphasizes inquiry-based learning, hands-on materials, storytelling, and research. This approach builds global awareness, responsibility, and respect for cultural diversity while helping children understand their place in the world.
Not applicable
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
Not applicable
Information not available
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.
Information not available
Children are introduced to French at an early age at Manor Montessori, with the goal of fostering a love of language learning and helping children see themselves as part of a global community. The program is delivered through stories, songs, visuals, and interactive experiences in an engaging, immersive environment that supports creativity and hands-on learning. A dedicated French teacher, who speaks only French during lessons, leads the program. In Casa, children participate in French three times per week in small groups, beginning with greetings and songs before learning foundational vocabulary such as days of the week, months, the alphabet, themed vocabulary, and simple conversational phrases. In Elementary, students receive daily instruction in a fully immersive setting that includes grammar, reading, dictation, and conversation. By Grade 3, students are building strong reading and writing skills and using both regular and selected irregular verb forms with growing confidence.
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
Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
Information not available
Fine Arts at Manor Montessori includes visual arts and music, fostering creativity, expression, and appreciation of the arts. In visual arts, elementary students explore colour theory and key elements such as pattern, texture, symmetry, shading, and perspective. They study artists and styles while working with drawing, painting, collage, and clay, enriched by sketching, workshops, and gallery visits. In music, children engage in age-appropriate experiences across programs. Toddlers explore Orff instruments, Casa students sing daily and build rhythm and confidence, and elementary students receive weekly instruction with a specialist teacher. They study diverse composers while learning recorder and ukulele and developing music literacy and performance skills.
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Light integration
A major effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy throughout the curriculum and in everything students do. Digital literacy is understood to be a fundamental skill in the 21st century: it therefore follows, the idea goes, that teachers should find ways to connect every lesson back to technology. Effort is made to ensure the use of technology is meaningful and advances students’ skills beyond what they would otherwise be from using computers outside the classroom.
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.
Information not available
At Manor Montessori School, technology is used purposefully to enhance learning and deepen understanding. Screens are used to view educational documentaries and to bring distant concepts to life, such as observing spaceships orbit the Moon. In the Elementary classrooms, computers are sometimes used to support students in researching, organizing, and extending information from books and classroom materials, helping them develop and refine individual projects. Calculators are introduced as tools to support and verify mathematical thinking, allowing students to focus on problem-solving and accuracy while building confidence. Across all uses, technology is limited and only integrated thoughtfully to complement hands-on learning and strengthen student understanding.
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Information not available
Casa and Toddler students enjoy 1.5 hours of supervised outdoor play daily, supporting movement, exploration, and social development. In Elementary, students participate in weekly gym classes focused on building balance, strength, coordination, and confidence, along with health education to support lifelong well-being. The program includes dryland training, team sports, swimming, and skating. Dryland builds foundational fitness through warm-ups, balance, core strength, and agility. Team sports develop cooperation and skills through modified games. Swimming focuses on water safety, confidence, and basic strokes, while skating builds balance and control on ice. Together, these experiences promote physical literacy, teamwork, enjoyment of movement, and overall fitness.
Montessori
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.
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.
Manor Montessori offers a Montessori Casa program in place of kindergarten, beginning at 2.5 years of age. Rooted in authentic Montessori philosophy, children learn through hands-on exploration, purposeful work, and individualized pacing in a prepared environment. Students build early literacy, numeracy, practical life, and sensorial skills using specialized Montessori materials that foster independence, concentration, and confidence. Mixed-age classrooms encourage peer learning and leadership. Our program provides a strong academic foundation while supporting the whole child socially, emotionally, and cognitively. A key feature is early and consistent French exposure, supporting language development and cognitive flexibility. This blend of authentic Montessori practice and enriched language programming creates a calm, structured, and engaging start to a child’s education.
Accelerated
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.
The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).
In a Montessori classroom, each child learns at an individual pace based on readiness and interest. Teachers provide personalized guidance, allowing students to progress independently. Children may work across multiple grade-level concepts simultaneously, advancing in areas of strength while continuing to build skills and understanding in other subjects over time.
Supportive
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”.
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.
At Manor Montessori, our program combines high academic expectations with individualized learning, ensuring that each child progresses at a pace that is appropriate for their unique development. Students advance to new skills and challenges as soon as they demonstrate readiness and mastery, allowing them to build confidence while continuing to grow. We encourage children to create work that is thoughtful, organized, and reflective of their best effort, fostering a sense of pride and accomplishment. Above all, we strive to nurture a genuine love of learning by cultivating curiosity, independence, and the confidence to explore, persevere, and embrace new challenges.
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
Information not available
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Spiritual
The goal is to cultivate "individuals with inner resourcefulness, strong faith and respect for God or a higher power."
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
We believe in educating the whole child by nurturing academic growth alongside social, emotional, and personal development. Our goal is to help students become confident, independent thinkers who demonstrate resilience, responsibility, and respect for others. We encourage curiosity, thoughtful questions, and a willingness to embrace challenges. Through reflection, self-correction, and perseverance, children learn from their experiences, develop problem-solving skills, and build a lifelong love of learning.
FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIESA - Forms of SupportAccommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - EnvironmentsIndirect Support:
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:
|
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forms of Support | Environments | Forms of Support | Environments | |
|
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.
|
||||
| Learning disabilities | ||||
|
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.
|
||||
|
Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)
This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language.
|
||||
|
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.
|
||||
|
Dysgraphia
This is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.
|
||||
|
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.
|
||||
|
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.
|
||||
|
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.
|
||||
| Developmental | ||||
|
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).
|
||||
|
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.
|
||||
|
Down syndrome
his is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.
|
||||
|
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).
|
||||
|
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.
|
||||
|
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.
|
||||
| Behavioral and Emotional | ||||
|
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.
|
||||
|
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.
|
||||
|
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.
|
||||
|
Suicidal thoughts
This involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.
|
||||
|
Drug and alcohol abuse
This involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning.
|
||||
|
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.
|
||||
| Physical | ||||
|
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.
|
||||
|
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.
|
||||
|
Muscular dystrophy
Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.
|
||||
|
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.
|
||||
|
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.
|
||||
|
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."
|
||||
|
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).
|
||||
|
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.
|
||||
|
Multiple physical
Accommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.
|
||||
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Extra support
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
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 |
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
JK - 12
18%
0%
$900
$0
0%
100%
Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, 1, 2, 3, 4
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades JK - 12
Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - 4
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
Successful students at Crawford Adventist Academy strive for excellence and attain maximum scholastic achievement; foster spiritual growth; are drug free and refrain from the use of other narcotics that promote an unhealthy lifestyle, maintain a safe environment, are willing to cooperate with others in a way that improves school life; welcome all races; show pride in their uniform, school, home, church and country; are critical thinkers; are courteous and respectful; safeguard the moral tone of the school; upholds high athletic ideals and recognizes that he/she is part of a team; belong to a community which includes those who have gone before, those who are present and those who will follow.
Manor Montessori is designed for children who learn through hands-on exploration, independence, and meaningful engagement in a calm, structured environment. All children can thrive in our program, as we are committed to meeting each learner where they are and supporting their individual development. Success is closely connected to family alignment with our Montessori philosophy and approach. We value families who understand and support child-led learning, mixed-age classrooms, and the development of both academic and whole-child skills. We deeply care about every student’s growth and work in close partnership with families to ensure each child is supported socially, emotionally, and academically. A shared commitment to respect, consistency, and trust in the Montessori process is key to a successful experience at Manor Montessori.
Admissions for new students is based on:
1. Completion of the Admissions Application
2. Receipt of all required documents
3. Testing
4. Interview with the Family
5. New Parents are required to attend an Orientation Session.
For your initial Admissions appointment, please bring the following original documents:
1. Proof of Canadian Citizenship/Residency
2. Ontario Health Card
3. Immunization Record
Admissions Process – Manor Montessori
Begin by booking a tour or joining one of our open houses to explore our classrooms and learn more about our programs. We look forward to meeting you!
Next, submit your digital application (found below) along with the $100 application fee for processing.
If your child is accepted, you will receive an official offer of enrollment from our team. To secure your child’s place, a response is required within 4 days of the offer.
A non-refundable, non-transferable deposit is required to confirm enrollment: $2,000 for Toddler and Casa programs and $2,500 for the Elementary program. This deposit is applied toward tuition.
Once the deposit is received, you will be sent an enrollment confirmation and next steps to prepare for your child’s start.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
By logging in or creating an account, you agree to Our Kids' Terms and Conditions. Information presented on this page may be paid advertising provided by the advertisers [schools/camps/programs] and is not warranted or guaranteed by OurKids.net or its associated websites. By using this website, creating or logging into an Our Kids account, you agree to Our Kids' Terms and Conditions. Please also see our Privacy Policy. Our Kids ™ © 2023 All rights reserved.
