1943 Ironoak Way Unit 106, Oakville, Ontario, L6H0N1, Canada
1305 Taylor Way, West Vancouver, British Columbia, V7T 2Y7, Canada
5,702.2 km
7,659.7 km
2012
1979
90
60
Nursery/Toddler to 6
Preschool to K
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English, French
English
Academic
Montessori
Montessori
Varies
Varies
$8,100 to $15,608
$8,100 to $18,720
No
No
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0%
None
None
$0
$0
8
15
0%
0%
100%
95%
information not available
Preschool, K
information not available
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Rolling
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Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - K
No
No
No
information not available
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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.
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"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
"Our family's experiences have been wonderful, especially because of the teachers both of my children have had, who created this environment for our family."
Anisha Somji - Parent (Jun 03, 2026)
We have a great relationship with the teachers, as they always make our children feel welcome and br... View full review
"All I wanted was for my daughter to feel safe and learn in a nurturing environment, which she has at Gatehouse."
Naya Ladha - Parent (Jun 08, 2026)
We truly feel blessed to have found Gatehouse. The learning environment, teachers and the community ... View full review
"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."
"For over 47 years, Gatehouse Montessori School has provided a warm, nurturing, and enriching learning environment for children on the North Shore. As a non-denominational, not-for-profit society, we are dedicated to maintaining the outstanding quality and reputation our school is known for. Led by experienced Montessori administration and certified Montessori and ECE educators, we foster independence, confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning."
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"Gatehouse Montessori School differentiates itself through its authentic commitment to the Montessori philosophy, delivered with consistency over more than 47 years of practice. Guided by trained AMI educators, we provide a true Montessori environment where learning is structured around five interconnected areas: Practical Life, Sensorial, Language, Mathematics, and Cultural Studies.
Rather than following a standardized, age-paced curriculum, children learn through hands-on materials within a 3-year mixed-age cycle. This allows each child to progress at their own developmental stage, with educators carefully observing and introducing lessons when readiness is demonstrated.
We intentionally prioritize depth, focus, and independence over overstimulation or fast-paced instruction. Enrichment such as French and music is thoughtfully integrated to complement core Montessori learning without disrupting continuity."
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"Gatehouse Montessori School makes intentional choices about how children learn. We prioritize depth over speed, allowing sustained engagement with materials rather than rapid coverage of content. Children spend time mastering concepts through hands-on work instead of moving quickly between activities.
We emphasize collaboration over competition. Students are not ranked or compared, but learn within a mixed-age environment where peer learning and mutual respect are central.
In balancing tradition and innovation, we favour time-tested Montessori materials over early reliance on technology. We believe strong foundations are built through concrete, tactile experience.
We also prioritize calm structure over high stimulation, supporting concentration, independence, and self-regulation.
These choices develop confident, self-directed learners with strong foundational skills."
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"Founded over 47 years ago, Gatehouse Montessori School was established with a clear commitment to authentic Montessori education. This early focus on a child-centred, hands-on approach continues to shape the school’s identity today.
A key milestone has been maintaining fidelity to the Montessori philosophy, including the use of trained AMI educators and the 3-year classroom cycle. Rather than following changing trends, the school has remained consistent in how it supports children’s development.
Over time, Gatehouse has evolved thoughtfully to meet the needs of modern families, introducing enrichment such as French and music in ways that complement, rather than disrupt, core Montessori learning.
This balance of consistency and intentional growth defines Gatehouse as a stable, trusted Montessori environment."
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"Gatehouse Montessori School is an excellent fit for children who are naturally curious, observant, and benefit from a calm, structured environment that supports independence. Students who thrive here are those who are willing to engage deeply with hands-on materials, work at their own pace, and develop concentration over time.
Our program is particularly well-suited to children who may not thrive in fast-paced, highly directive settings, but instead benefit from individualized guidance and the opportunity to build confidence through self-directed learning.
Families who value consistency, respect, and a thoughtful approach to early education will find strong alignment with our philosophy. Those who appreciate long-term development over quick results, and who trust in a child’s ability to grow with guidance rather than pressure, tend to get the most out of the Gatehouse experience."
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"Families looking for fast-paced programs with constant activity changes or high levels of external stimulation may find our calm, focused classrooms to be a different experience than expected.
In addition, those who prefer early and extensive use of technology in the classroom may find our emphasis on hands-on, material-based learning to be more traditional.
Our program is best suited to families who value independence, consistency, and a thoughtful, developmentally grounded approach to early education."
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"Gatehouse Montessori School is widely regarded as a warm, nurturing, and well-established Montessori community where children experience meaningful growth. In the public eye, the school is known for its caring, professional educators and its authentic Montessori approach, with a strong emphasis on independence and individual development.
Families often associate Gatehouse with noticeable progress in their children’s confidence, social-emotional development, and learning skills. The calm, welcoming environment and thoughtfully prepared classrooms are frequently highlighted as key strengths.
The school is also recognized for fostering a positive and engaging experience for children, where they feel excited to learn and share their daily experiences. Overall, Gatehouse is seen as a trusted, supportive environment that leaves a lasting impact on early childhood development."
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"One of the most underappreciated aspects of Gatehouse Montessori School is the level of intention and planning behind each child’s learning experience. While families notice the calm classrooms and independent work, the depth of observation, record-keeping, and individualized lesson planning is often less visible.
Our educators carefully track each child’s progress, prepare detailed reports for kindergarten readiness, and introduce materials at the right moment based on readiness. This ensures learning is both personalized and purposeful.
The mixed-age classroom is another element that may seem simple but plays a key role in fostering peer learning, leadership, and collaboration.
Over time, families come to understand that these quieter, less visible practices are what support meaningful growth, independence, and long-term success."
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"Families are often surprised by the depth of learning that takes place within our calm and structured environment. At first glance, the classrooms may appear quiet and simple, but over time, parents begin to see the level of focus, independence, and problem-solving children develop through hands-on Montessori work.
Another common surprise is how quickly children build confidence and take ownership of their learning. Tasks that may seem small- such as caring for materials, completing work independently, or helping peers-contribute to a strong sense of responsibility and self-assurance.
Families are also often struck by how much their children enjoy the experience. Children frequently share what they’ve learned, from new concepts to songs and daily activities, reflecting a genuine engagement with their environment.
Over time, what may have initially seemed understated reveals itself as a highly intentional and impactful approach to early education."
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"As of 2025, we introduced a structured summer program, allowing families the option to remain enrolled year-round rather than closing for the summer. While separate from our Montessori academic program, the summer program focuses on outdoor play, creative activities, and flexible, theme-based experiences in a more relaxed setting.
We have also continued refining classroom routines to support longer, uninterrupted work cycles and greater consistency across classrooms. In addition, we have strengthened staff collaboration and professional development to ensure high-quality, consistent practice. These updates reflect our commitment to providing stability for families while maintaining a strong, focused Montessori program during the academic year."
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"Over the next five years, we plan to continue strengthening consistency and quality across all classrooms while maintaining the integrity of our Montessori program. Our focus will be on refining classroom practices, enhancing staff training, and ensuring a consistently calm, well-prepared learning environment for all students.
We also aim to further develop our enrichment offerings, including seasonal programs to better support the needs of our families. As our community grows, we will prioritize thoughtful, sustainable expansion while maintaining small class sizes and strong teacher-child relationships. Our goal is to build on our existing foundation, ensuring every child continues to receive a focused, high-quality, and supportive early learning experience."
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.
I am proud to lead a Montessori school where children are given the time, space, and guidance to grow at their own pace. We focus on creating a calm, respectful environment where children feel secure, capable, and genuinely engaged in their learning.
Our role as educators is to observe carefully, support thoughtfully, and provide meaningful experiences that build independence and confidence over time. We work closely with families to ensure consistency between home and school, and we value open communication and partnership.
Most importantly, we want children to feel happy coming to school each day, and to leave with a strong foundation not only academically, but also in how they think, solve problems, and interact with others.
Montessori
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.
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.
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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
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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
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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
Not applicable
Not applicable
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Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Not applicable
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Information not available
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Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Information not available
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Montessori
Montessori programs aimed at preschool and Kindergarten- aged children allow young learners to choose which “tasks” or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles -- the essential features of these puzzles being they contain a “right answer” and allow for self-correction. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on learning being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with children developing a sense of self-sufficiency and confidence. Specially trained teachers act as guides, introducing children to progressively more difficult materials when appropriate. A Montessori classroom is typically very calm and orderly, with children working alone or, sometimes, in small groups.
If you want to learn more about Montessori education, check out our comprehensive guide. You can also check out our guide to Montessori preschools, elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools.
Montessori 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.
La Villa Montessori School is dedicated to fulfill the intrinsic needs of each child by following Dr. Montessori’s principles and the 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 will have a wholesome growth while developing a life-long love of learning.
Our program follows an authentic Montessori philosophy inspired by Dr. Maria Montessori, focusing on child-led, hands-on learning in a carefully prepared environment. We offer a three-year mixed-age cycle (ages 3–6), supporting continuity, independence, and confidence-building. Preschool children engage in practical life, sensorial, language, and early math materials that develop concentration, coordination, and foundational academic skills. Learning is enriched through outdoor exploration, cultural studies, music, French, and fine arts. In Kindergarten, children enter the final year of the Montessori cycle, where they deepen literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving through advanced materials, journaling, and collaborative project work. Older students also mentor younger peers, strengthening leadership and social-emotional growth. Our extended-day structure provides consistency and additional enrichment opportunities throughout the school day.
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.
Our Montessori environment uses multi-age classrooms, flexible groupings, and individualized learning plans to support each child’s development. Students work at their own pace within a structured three-year cycle, receiving guided instruction, small-group lessons, and extended independent work periods that allow mastery, confidence-building, and differentiated progression across all learning areas.
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.
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.
Our academic culture is supportive, child-centred, and focused on fostering a lifelong love of learning. We emphasize mastery, independence, and motivation that comes from genuine interest rather than external pressure or comparison. Children progress through a carefully prepared Montessori environment at their own developmental pace within a structured three-year cycle, receiving individualized guidance and high expectations appropriate to their stage of learning. Teachers observe closely, provide targeted lessons, and support each child in building confidence, concentration, and competence across all learning areas. Academic growth is seen as a natural outcome of meaningful engagement, hands-on exploration, and consistent encouragement. We prioritize curiosity, resilience, and a positive relationship with learning, ensuring children feel both supported and appropriately challenged.
"We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."
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."
Emotional
The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
Our developmental priority is to cultivate intellectually curious, capable, and independent thinkers who take ownership of their learning. Through a Montessori environment, children develop strong foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, problem-solving, and critical thinking through hands-on, self-directed exploration. Equally important, we aim to nurture socially responsible individuals who are respectful, collaborative, and aware of others. Mixed-age classrooms encourage mentorship, cooperation, and empathy, helping children learn to contribute positively within a community. Our goal is to support children in becoming confident, thoughtful learners who are capable of making informed decisions, working effectively with others, and approaching challenges with resilience, curiosity, and respect for themselves and those around them.
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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
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95%
Preschool, K
Rolling
Not available
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Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - K
No
No
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Students who thrive in our program are curious, independent, and comfortable engaging in hands-on, self-directed learning. We look for children who show emerging responsibility, are able to participate in group settings with respect, and can follow simple routines within a structured Montessori environment. A willingness to explore, concentrate on tasks, and engage with materials is important. We value children who are kind, socially aware, and able to work cooperatively with peers in a mixed-age classroom. Success is best supported when families are aligned with Montessori principles and support independence, consistency, and respect for the learning process at home as well as at school.
Step 1 – Book a tour (Parents only)
Give us a call or schedule a tour via the link below to come in and get to know us better. We will explain our program to you and give you a tour of the school. You will also get an opportunity to observe a classroom in action. This visit will also allow you to ask questions regarding your child and their education.
An application package will be provided to you at the end of the tour for your review.
Step 2 – Submit the Application and Payment
The application package includes all the forms and information you will need to register your child in our program. The required forms will need to be completed along with the deposit which consists of the application fee ($215), activity fee ($300) and one-month tuition. Please refer to our fee overview for further detail.
Step 3 – Child comes for a visit
We will also invite you to bring your child for a tour of the classroom environment. This will potentially be their home away from home for the next few years and that initial tour is an opportunity to get to know the classroom, meet the teachers and most importantly, watch their eyes light up at the sight of the Montessori materials
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1943 Ironoak Way Unit 106, Oakville, Ontario, L6H0N1, Canada
1305 Taylor Way, West Vancouver, British Columbia, V7T 2Y7, Canada