AN OUR KIDS REPORT:La Villa Montessori School vs. Calgary Waldorf School

one-to-one comparison:

View La Villa Montessori School's full report
VS.
View Calgary Waldorf School's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    1943 Ironoak Way Unit 106, Oakville, Ontario, L6H0N1, Canada

    515 Cougar Ridge Dr. SW, Calgary, Alberta, T3H 5G9, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    2012

    1985

    Enrolment

    90

    240

    Grades

    Nursery/Toddler to 6

    JK to 9

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English, French

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Montessori

    Waldorf

    Curriculum pace

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

    Academic culture

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

    Avg. Class Size

    Varies

    Varies

    Special needs support

    Gifted learner support

    Preschool/K curriculum

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

    If you want to learn more about Montessori education, check out our comprehensive guide. You can also check out our guide to Montessori preschools, elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools.
    Waldorf
    Highly group-oriented and with a strong emphasis on creative and imaginative play, Waldorf preschool and Kindergarten programs have very little to no emphasis on academics. A Waldorf environment will often feel more like a home than a traditional classroom -- the goal being to instill comfort and and a sense of predictability in students’ day. This emphasis on comfort and predictability also manifests through a heavy use of repetition: for example, teachers might read the same story multiple days in a row. Waldorf schools ask parents to refrain from offering children TV or computers at home, and aim to develop in children a connection to the natural world. If you want to learn more about Waldorf education, check out our comprehensive guide.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $8,100 to $15,608

    $6,170 to $12,130

    Boarding Tuition

    Financial aid (FA)

    No

    Yes

    Students on FA

    0%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    None

    Preschool to 9

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $0

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    8

    20

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    100%

    0%

    Day entry years

    Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Not available

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - K

    No

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    information not available

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    La Villa rightly prides itself in offering a very authentic presentation of the Montessori method, and for many families that is a primary draw. As such, students are engaged in an active, hands-on, cooperative environment, where the core curriculum is delivered in consort with a growing understanding of their place in the community of the school and beyond. Close attention is given to the acquisition of skills as well as interpersonal, physical, and emotional development.

    View full report

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    The program is established and proven, having been founded in 1985. Facilities are frankly excellent, having been purpose built for the CWS program in 2002, and created through consultation and cooperation with the entire school community. Spaces are ample, well appointed, and naturally lit. The aesthetic throughout is energizing. A wealth of outdoor space is a plus, to with more than four acres combining multi-use fields, play spaces, and sports fields. The proximity to the Canada Olympic Park isn’t perhaps meaningful in any substantive way, but is nice all the same. In the creation of the facility, to the day-to-day experience of the school, the school prides itself on the community that it both serves and represents, and well it should. There’s a village feel throughout, which only amplifies the academic work being done. Parents feel as much a part of the school as the students, which supports the work of the school in lots of overt and subtle ways. Staff are dedicated and experienced, and the daily routines—from drop off to aftercare—are friendly and sympathetic to the needs of parents and everything that can pop up in the course of a day.

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    "My child appreciates the independence"
    hina marsonia - Parent   (Feb 13, 2018)
    My child appreciates the independence she has in choosing her activities and material that she works... View full review

    Teachers instill confidence and motivation
    Christine Johnson - Parent   (Feb 16, 2018)
    My child's experience has been better than I ever could have imagined. Even if we have had a bad mo... View full review

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    information not available

  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    "La Villa Montessori School is a charming community school dedicated to fulfill the intrinsic needs of each child by following Dr. Montessori’s principles and guidelines of the Association Montessori Internationale (A.M.I.). Our mission is to create a safe, stimulating and nurturing environment that satisfies a child’s emotional, social, physical and intellectual needs. By addressing these needs, the children become active and productive members of society while fostering a life-long love of learning."

    • Association Montessori Internationale (A.M.I.) recognized
    • Young Children's Community (15 months-30 months)
    • Primary (30 months-6 years)
    • Elementary (6-12 years)

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    "Central to Waldorf education is a deep respect for childhood. Our enriched curriculum is designed to meet children where they are in their development. Movement and time in nature is built into every student’s daily rhythm. The Waldorf learning experience is hands-on, with unwired and low-tech classrooms. The arts — music, story, drawing, painting, and drama — are interwoven through all subjects. Students also learn two world languages, French and German."

    • Beginning in grade one children learn two world languages, French and German.
    • Handwork and Woodwork are part of the curriculum
    • Middle School students take part in a series of elective classes including wrestling, robotics, etc.
    • Independent School athletics program begins in grade seven with after school sports.

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    "This whole-child approach to education is rooted in the Waldorf concepts of "feeling, thinking, willing," and "heart, head, hands." These concepts are based on Dr. Rudolf Steiner's philosophies, and adapted for a changing world. We strive to honour, nurture, and protect the childhood of our students; to guide them into healthy adolescence; and to help them mature in ways that go beyond the simply material aspects of our nature and our world."

    Array

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

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    "Our philosophy prioritizes the integration of arts, imagination, and movement into all academic disciplines. Our curriculum fosters intellectual flexibility and creative thinking, with an eye to ethics and morality. Knowledge is important, but understanding what to do with that knowledge is critical. We believe that becoming a successful human is a function of weaving together a rich tapestry of capacities and abilities."

    Array

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

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    "The use of electronic media, particularly television, by young children is discouraged in Waldorf schools. So too is the over-emphasis of commercialism and busy extra-curricular schedules. The importance of a balanced and strong family life is emphasized, encouraged and supported at our school."

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    "Waldorf class teachers build strong relationships with their students. Our methodology is rooted in rhythm and routine, and supported by having a Class Teacher. The teacher stays with their class for several consecutive years, acting as mentor, role model, and guardian. A Class Teacher is better able to assess each individual's development needs, and fosters shared experience and a strong bond between the teacher and the students and their families."

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

             La Villa Montessori School came to fruition after years of imagining what the ideal environment would be like for my own children. I had come to truly understand the African proverb, "It takes a village to raise a child" in order to provide the most positive and healthy environment for the children to thrive in every way. In Latin, the word Villa (Villam) refers to a farm or village and so it became La Villa Montessori School and the very essence of our community. After our first year of operating in 2015, I saw that having a strong cohesive community between the parents and staff at La Villa being a pillar of support and guidance for the children in our care.  We continue to provide the highest level of care and compassion for the children while fostering a trust and support with our parents. 

    As one of a handful of internationally recognized Montessori schools in Canada following AMI’s standards of quality and authenticity, we are very proud to have this distinction to support and grow the Montessori movement around the world. 

    I invite you to visit us and see what La Villa Montessori School is all about. Thank you.

    information not available

  • EXTRACURRICULARS

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Badminton

    Baseball

    Basketball

    Canoeing/Kayaking

    Cricket

    Cross-country skiing

    Cycling

    Downhill skiing

    Equestrian

    Fencing

    Field Hockey

    Figure Skating

    Football

    Golf

    Gymnastics

    Ice Hockey

    Ice Skating

    Lacrosse

    Martial Arts

    Mountain biking

    Racquet Ball

    Rowing

    Rugby

    Running

    Sailing

    Skateboarding

    Snowboarding

    Soccer

    Softball

    Squash

    Swimming

    Tennis

    Track & Field

    Volleyball

    Weightlifting

    Wrestling

    Archery

    Curling

    Ultimate


    Clubs Offered

    Clubs offered

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

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

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

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


    What the school says

    What the school says

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    • Our School is a member of the I.S.A.A. (Independent Schools’ Athletic Association), a league of independent schools in Calgary that coordinates the sporting season for its students.
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    Preschool - 9

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    0%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $0

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    100%

    0%

    Day entry years

    Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Not available

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - K

    No

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    No

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    What the school says

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

Compare:

LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  

CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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