AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Montessori Learning Centre of Pickering vs. NOIC Academy

one-to-one comparison:

View Montessori Learning Centre of Pickering's full report
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View NOIC Academy's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    401 Kingston Road, Pickering, Ontario, L1V 1A3, Canada

    50 Featherstone Ave, Markham, Ontario, L3S 2H4, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1984

    2004

    Enrolment

    200

    289

    Grades

    Nursery/Toddler to 8

    9 to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Day, Boarding

    Language of instruction

    English

    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.
    Intellectual
    The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Montessori

    Traditional, International Baccalaureate

    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.
    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

    Varies

    6 to 15

    Special needs support

    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.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $12 to $14,000

    $8,000

    Boarding Tuition

    $18,000

    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

    15

    72

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    93%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    90%

    Day entry years

    Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

    Boarding entry years

    9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Not available

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Rolling

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - 8

    No

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    information not available

    NOIC ACADEMY

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    Often what attracts parents to Montessori education is the close, community feel that many schools are able to provide, and that’s very true of MLCP. The school began in 1984 with 25 students, and growth has been less of a concern for its administrators than quality. The student population today is just 200, this in a program that spans preschool through Grade 8. Yes, there are all of the things we expect of the Montessori approach, though that’s coupled with a very close attention to the needs of individuals, both students and parents combined. Before and after care is available, and while it’s not included in tuition, the rates are very reasonable. Likewise, those programs are entirely flexible—parents pay only for what they use. In that, and in other ways, this is a school that really operates with the needs of its families foremost in mind.

    View full report

    NOIC ACADEMY

    NOIC was founded in 2004 in order to support international learners intending to enter post-secondary study in North America. The enrollment is relatively small, at just shy of 300, which is rightly a draw—students are known here, rather than lost in the shuffle as the might be at larger international institutions. It offers the Ontario Secondary School Diploma in conjunction with the IB Diploma Program, and has been an accredited IB school since 2015. The academic program is rigorous, as are the supports for students who are arriving from overseas and adapting, in some cases, to learning in an English language environment. The ideal student is one looking to learn in an international setting and intending to advance to post-secondary study.

    View full report
  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    "MLCP caters to students aged 12 months to 14 years, following Maria Montessori's philosophies and theories. Her exciting range of materials is available to introduce new concepts and lessons. To further enrich the curriculum, the school offers French, Physical Education and Music and Movement, with Home Economics, Civics, Computer, library visits and community service for the older students. A bilingual programme is offered beginning at the Junior Elementary Level."

    NOIC ACADEMY

    "NOIC ACADEMY is located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Being a full-time, high end private boarding secondary school, it has offered the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) since 2004. In March, 2015, it was authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) to become an IB World School, offering the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). NOIC ACADEMY is co-inspected by the Ontario Ministry of Education and IBO."

    • High-end secondary boarding school in Ontario
    • Mandarin service
    • Exceptional VIP tutoring to every student
    • Offers ESL and social volunteering
    • IB school
    • Online education
    • OSSD Online credit course
    • ELearning online OSSD

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    "The individualization that the Montessori program offers allows staff to recognize and hone individual learning styles empowering students to be working at potential. Our long term staff share years of dedicated experience with students. Our commitment to the development of the student as a whole person is supported by a myriad of opportunities to grow and thrive."

    NOIC ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    Information not available

    NOIC ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    Information not available

    NOIC ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    Information not available

    NOIC ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    Information not available

    NOIC ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    "Our long history in Pickering has allowed us the privilege of sharing all we offer with many families. Our program is a solid and acknowledged one growing and changing over the years, based on family needs and feedback. MLCP respects and appreciates the referrals from those who have come before and continually strives to better in all we offer."

    NOIC ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    Information not available

    NOIC ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    Information not available

    NOIC ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    "Ongoing feedback often refers to appreciation for the individualization of all that we offer with each student and family. Especially with longer attending students, the dedication of the long term staff and the respect shared between them for differences and accomplishments is often noted. The uniqueness of each is valued."

    NOIC ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    Information not available

    NOIC ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    Information not available

    NOIC ACADEMY

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    Nicola Phillips opened the Montessori Learning Centre in Pickering in 1984 with the view to offering the Montessori environment in the way that had excited her during her training.  The school continues to be devoted to the individualized nurturing and deveopment of each student encouraging potential in each area of the curriculum. Stong subject areas are honed and potentialized and areas in need of attention are recognized and strengthened. The nurturing element of Montessori's method is exercised at all levels with both students and staff respecting differences and encouraging growth in all areas both academic and social.

    Welcome to NOIC Academy, a premier private secondary school where high standards, exceptional academic achievement and personalized programming are at the heart of our educational philosophy. At NOIC Academy, we believe in the power of mentoring and tailor-made programming. Our dedicated staff works closely with each student to understand their unique needs and strengths, providing personalized guidance and academic support to ensure their success and acceptance into highly respected international universities.

     

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

      Montessori

      NOIC ACADEMY

      Traditional


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

      Information not available

      NOIC ACADEMY

      International Baccalaureate


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

      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.

      NOIC ACADEMY

      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.


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

      Not applicable

      NOIC ACADEMY

      Some private schools offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programming. The "Diploma Programme" is offered to students in the final two years of high school, while the "Primary Years Programme" (ages 3 to 12) and "Middle Years Programme" (ages 11 to 16) serve as preparation for the diploma program.


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

      MLCP follows the Montessori method of educating the child academically, socially and emotionally with the support of her specially created materials. Students of all ages are encouraged to learn at potential and are not limited by prescribed expectations. Students learn from teachers and other students supporting our motto of "Knowledge with Understanding"

      NOIC ACADEMY

      NOIC ACADEMY of both the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) and International Baccalaureate® Diploma Programme (IBDP). Being a full-time, high end private boarding secondary school, it has offered the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) since 2004 with 667013 as its school code. In March, 2015, it was authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) to become an IB World School, offering the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). Its school license code is 049719. NOIC ACADEMY is co-inspected by the Ontario Ministry of Education and IBO.

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach

      NOIC ACADEMY

      Not applicable


      Our Take

      Our Take

      MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

      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.

      NOIC ACADEMY

      Not applicable


      What the school says

      What the school says

      MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

      We, at MLCP, endeavour to provide an environment rich in both Montessori materials and her proven methodology and practice and in the CCEYA and HDLH foundations for learning. As such, our classrooms provide encouraging, supportive, individualized learning opportunities through the appealing Montessori materials and the carefully prepared environments.

      NOIC ACADEMY

      Information not available

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      NOIC ACADEMY

      Standard-enriched


      Our Take

      Our Take

      MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

      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.

      NOIC ACADEMY

      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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

      Montessori stresses the importance of the combined age groups supporting and nurturing each other in reaching true potential

      NOIC ACADEMY

      Students complete up to 3 courses per semester with 3 semesters from September to June each year. We support face to face learning with eLearning opportunities for students. We also offer summer school credit courses for students during July and August.

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture

      NOIC ACADEMY

      Rigorous


      Our Take

      Our Take

      MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

      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.

      NOIC ACADEMY

      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”.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

      MLCP promotes a supportive learning environment instilling a love of learning and an expectation of production at potential. Students are offered opportunities to be continually challenged and are emboldened to achieve at potential in each academic area. Montessori classrooms are created to encourage success offering each student what is needed for them to be the best person they can be academically, socially and as a valued community member.

      NOIC ACADEMY

      NOIC ACADEMY has very unique model for education offering a mentor / tutor program for every student as they begin their time at our school. While the education culture is rigorous, the model is very supportive with mentoring/ tutoring provided for one hour every day.


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

      Information not available

      NOIC ACADEMY

      "We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."

  • 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 LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    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

    NOIC ACADEMY

    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

  • 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

    0%

    90%

    Day entry years

    Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

    Boarding entry years

    9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Not available

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Rolling

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - 8

    No

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    Yes: grades 9 - 12

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    We are looking for families / students who are committed to Montessori's belief that children have different learning styles and that our goal of having each child reach their potential in each area of development and curriculum is important. Montessori offers a whole person approach to education which needs to be respected by all involved parties.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    We meet with prospective parents to ensure that they have read through our admissions package and that Montessori's philosophies and theories are in line with their educational plan.  We arrange some on site visits, as needed, to further ensure that parents are aware of how the classrooms work and the expectations of the school.

    NOIC ACADEMY

    Transcript from student's previous school is mandatory with their application.

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

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