AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Montessori House of Children vs. Oakville Christian School (OCS)

one-to-one comparison:

View Montessori House of Children's full report
VS.
View Oakville Christian School (OCS)'s full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    85 Charlotte Street, Brantford, Ontario, N3T 2X2, Canada

    112 Third Line, Oakville, Ontario, L6L3Z6, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1974

    1982

    Enrolment

    41

    309

    Grades

    Nursery/Toddler to SK

    JK to 8

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

    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."

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Montessori

    Traditional

    Curriculum pace

    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.
    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

    Rigorous
    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”.

    Avg. Class Size

    8

    18

    Special needs support

    Learning

    Gifted learner support

    In-class adaptations

    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.
    Academic
    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.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $15,998

    Boarding Tuition

    Financial aid (FA)

    No

    No

    Students on FA

    0%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    None

    None

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $0

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    10

    28

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    100%

    90%

    Day entry years

    Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3

    Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    No

    Yes: grades JK - 8

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    MONTESSORI HOUSE OF CHILDREN

    information not available

    OAKVILLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (OCS)

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    MONTESSORI HOUSE OF CHILDREN

    Established in 1974, Montessori House of Children is within the first cohort of schools offering the method in Canada, with the first schools starting up in the late 60s. Then as now the intention was to provide a strong, values-based foundation with an eye to the skills and abilities that children will need to be successful in the primary and elementary grades. The program intends to offer a family-oriented approach in a comfortable, familiar environment, as supported by the building itself. Also true to its original mandate, MHC hews closely to the philosophy and methods developed by Maria Montessori, something that is a draw for the families that enroll here. A range of learning differences are supported, and small class sizes ensure a high level of individual attention.

    View full report

    OAKVILLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (OCS)

    OCS was founded in 1982 to serve a need principally for a quality school that taught the Ontario curriculum through a Christian lens. Since, the school has built its reputation on precisely that: offering a Christian perspective on the core Ontario curriculum. The school has a strong community feel, a product to some extent of its size, though leadership has given close attention to developing instruction and extra-curriculars, including the development of a strong athletic program. The school continues to reflect its original mandate while also remaining agile, adopting new programs and practices to meet the needs of students in a changing world. 

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    MONTESSORI HOUSE OF CHILDREN

    information not available

    OAKVILLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (OCS)

    Strong academics, close-knit community
    Leanne Getty - Parent   (Feb 27, 2018)
    My daughters are currently in grades one and two and are both thriving at Oakville Christian School.... View full review

    "a very positive experience for all four of our children"
    Kathleen Wilson - Parent   (Feb 27, 2018)
    We have had our children at Oakville Christian School for the last nine years. School has been a ve... View full review

    "I think it says a lot about a school if your graduates like to come back and help out where they can."
    Charlotte Jeneway - Parent   (Feb 28, 2018)
    My children have, and still do appreciate everything that Oakville Christian School offers them on a... View full review

  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    MONTESSORI HOUSE OF CHILDREN

    "Institutional building located a few blocks from Laurier Univ. Founded in 1974 to help children reach their maximum learning potential through independent and self-directed learning. Our program for Toddler and Pre-school. Our program is successful for children who will attend Montessori or traditional education; and also for children with learning differences like Disability, Autism, and ADHD. Our Extra-curricular activities: French, computer, swimming, and music."

    OAKVILLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (OCS)

    "Nurturing excellence in a Christ-centred academic environment is the key to education at Oakville Christian School. The Christian principles of the school reflect a strong belief in the value of each child. OCS seeks to develop the mind, body and spirit of each student within the context of a caring, safe community environment. In a world that expects you to fit in, we teach our students to stand out!"

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    MONTESSORI HOUSE OF CHILDREN

    Information not available

    OAKVILLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (OCS)

    "At OCS, our aim is to help students – accomplish the following:
    -Develop Biblical values that will guide them in their decision making,-in the present and in years to come.
    -Respect other students and teachers (all people) as persons of value, made in the image of Christ.
    -Recognize others in their lives as instruments of God (Proverbs 27:17) to ‘sharpen’ their lives with a goal to journey through life interdependently.
    -Become lifelong lovers of learning developing healthy work habits."

    Array

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

    MONTESSORI HOUSE OF CHILDREN

    Information not available

    OAKVILLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (OCS)

    Information not available

    Array

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

    MONTESSORI HOUSE OF CHILDREN

    Information not available

    OAKVILLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (OCS)

    Information not available

    Array

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

    MONTESSORI HOUSE OF CHILDREN

    Information not available

    OAKVILLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (OCS)

    Information not available

    Array

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

    MONTESSORI HOUSE OF CHILDREN

    Information not available

    OAKVILLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (OCS)

    Information not available

    Array

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

    MONTESSORI HOUSE OF CHILDREN

    Information not available

    OAKVILLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (OCS)

    "Our student body’s size lends itself to a ‘family’ atmosphere, where all teachers and administrative staff know students by name. Many groups contribute this OCS culture of community, with a common goal of learning, growing together, and having mutual respect for one another. We believe a healthy, trusting home/school relationship enhances, and even speeds, a child’s growth."

    Array

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

    MONTESSORI HOUSE OF CHILDREN

    Information not available

    OAKVILLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (OCS)

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    MONTESSORI HOUSE OF CHILDREN

    Information not available

    OAKVILLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (OCS)

    "At Oakville Christian School, our common goal is to help our students continue on their academic paths to success while being lovingly nurtured in a Christ-Centered Academic Environment."

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    MONTESSORI HOUSE OF CHILDREN

    Information not available

    OAKVILLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (OCS)

    "At Oakville Christian School, we believe that school is more than just academics. We offer a variety of programs to our students, promoting growth academically, physically, spiritually, and socially. We know that each child is unique in their abilities and talents, and we strive to offer programs that appeal to all aptitudes. We provide numerous clubs, extracurricular activities, competitive and non-competitive athletics, service, and student council opportunities."

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    MONTESSORI HOUSE OF CHILDREN

    Information not available

    OAKVILLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (OCS)

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    MONTESSORI HOUSE OF CHILDREN

    Information not available

    OAKVILLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (OCS)

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    information not available

    Welcome to Oakville Christian School (OCS)! Our mission is “Nurturing Excellence in a Christ-centred Academic Environment”. Over the past thirty five years, OCS has experienced increasing success, combining Christian faith development with high academic standards.

    Oakville Christian School has a vibrant academic program that exceeds Ontario Ministry guidelines with programs in Athletics, French, Music and Art. Following the research-based School-wide Enrichment Model, OCS provides challenging high-end learning that is enjoyable for everyone. Our learning environment is supported by Smart board technology, a computer lab, a mobile laptop lab and two dedicated computers in every classroom. All students have the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of different sports, and OCS competitive teams have developed a high reputation for outstanding sportsmanship and skills in tournaments. Students are also given excellent opportunity for leadership activities among other students. In addition, participation in musical performances, drama, chapel presentations, interest clubs and community service provides students with the growth necessary to develop academically, physically, spiritually and socially.

    Families are attracted to the school because of the Christian environment, high academic standards, strong sense of community and the highly professional, experienced and dedicated teaching staff. Our reputation has grown through word-of-mouth as a result of family satisfaction, student well-being and graduate success in high school and beyond. As you browse through our website, you will discover the difference that our program has to offer.


    Jeff Kennedy  B.Kin, B.Ed, M.Ed.

     

  • SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT

    FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIES

    A - Forms of Support

    Accommodation:
    Modification:
    Remediation:

    B - Environments

    Indirect 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.

    Additional support

    Additional support

    MONTESSORI HOUSE OF CHILDREN

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    OAKVILLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (OCS)

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    INFORMAL SUPPORT FOR MILD DIFFICULTIES

    Learning Strategy

    Extra Support

    Mild but clinically diagnosed ADHD

    Accommodations

    Modifications


    Additional support

    Additional support

    MONTESSORI HOUSE OF CHILDREN

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    OAKVILLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (OCS)

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy


    What the school says about their special needs support

    What the school says about their special needs support

    MONTESSORI HOUSE OF CHILDREN

    Information not available

    OAKVILLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (OCS)

    Information not available


    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    MONTESSORI HOUSE OF CHILDREN

    Information not available

    OAKVILLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (OCS)

    Information not available

  • EXTRACURRICULARS

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Badminton

    Baseball

    Basketball

    Canoeing/Kayaking

    Cricket

    Cross-country skiing

    Cycling

    Downhill skiing

    Equestrian

    Fencing

    Field Hockey

    Figure Skating

    Football

    Golf

    Gymnastics

    Ice Hockey

    Ice Skating

    Lacrosse

    Martial Arts

    Mountain biking

    Racquet Ball

    Rowing

    Rugby

    Running

    Sailing

    Skateboarding

    Snowboarding

    Soccer

    Softball

    Squash

    Swimming

    Tennis

    Track & Field

    Volleyball

    Weightlifting

    Wrestling

    Archery

    Curling

    Ultimate


    Clubs Offered

    Clubs offered

    MONTESSORI HOUSE OF CHILDREN

    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

    OAKVILLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (OCS)

    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

    MONTESSORI HOUSE OF CHILDREN

    OAKVILLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (OCS)

    • Athletics is a vital part of our school community. Christ is represented in our Phys-Ed classes, intramural, and varsity teams, through our interactions with classmates, teammates, coaches, officials, and spectators.
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    0%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $0

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    100%

    90%

    Day entry years

    Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3

    Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    No

    Yes: grades JK - 8

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    Yes: grades JK - 8

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    What the school says

    What the school says

    OAKVILLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (OCS)

    We offer Christ-centered academic programs by qualified Christian teachers for students in JK through Grade 8. Student development is enriched with Biblical instruction and co-curricular activities that enable students to mature spiritually, socially, and physically. We also create a safe, caring, learning environment – where students are taught to respect God, themselves, and others, and where partnerships are built with our students’ families. Please contact our Admissions Director to discuss the application process.

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

Compare:

MONTESSORI HOUSE OF CHILDREN:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  

OAKVILLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (OCS):
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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