AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Montessori Learning Centre of Pickering vs. Rosseau Lake College

one-to-one comparison:

View Montessori Learning Centre of Pickering's full report
VS.
View Rosseau Lake College's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

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

    1967 Bright Street, Rosseau, Ontario, P0C 1J0, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1984

    1967

    Enrolment

    200

    135

    Grades

    Nursery/Toddler to 8

    7 to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Boarding, Day

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

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Montessori

    Progressive

    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.
    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

    15 to 18

    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

    $22,700 to $32,700

    Boarding Tuition

    $55,170 to $66,300

    Financial aid (FA)

    No

    Yes

    Students on FA

    0%

    10%

    Eligible grades for FA

    None

    6 to 12

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $10,000

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    15

    23

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    67%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    85%

    Day entry years

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

    6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Not available

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Rolling

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - 8

    Yes: grades 6 - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    information not available

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    “It’s a small school in all the best ways: intimate, active, and personal. … In addition to mastering the core curriculum, students are asked to consider how they can serve their communities, and they are given ample opportunities to do just that.”

    “ … there isn’t a sense of being pushed from class to class, discipline to discipline, whenever the bell rings. Instead, there is time offered to get into a task and stay with it. The dissection of a frog, for example, might take a whole afternoon. This is a school that believes in the value of taking time, that learning is an experience to be savoured.”

    “It’s true that every school is unique, though that’s especially true here. In so many ways, it’s one of a kind, beginning with the integration of outdoor education into all aspects of student life.”
    Read The Our Kids Review of Rosseau Lake College

    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

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    Throughout its life, Rosseau Lake has forged its own path, its own tradition, which itself is a primary draw for students and faculty alike. It’s true that every school is unique, though that’s especially true here. In so many ways, it’s one of a kind, beginning with the integration of outdoor education into all aspects of student life. The Seven Generations program, too, is a model for others to follow. And on it goes. The students come because they want an education, yes, but also because they are looking for more. They want to be engaged, to find a place within a community of kindred spirits. They intend to go on to post-secondary studies, though they also understand that school should never be only a stepping stone to some future accomplishment. The school rightly prides itself on graduating students who have a strong sense of identity as learners, are able to describe who they are, and analyze the experiences they’ve had. And while many schools will say those kinds of things, Rosseau Lake can actually point to them. In addition to earning a degree, students leave having spent the equivalent of two months on outtrips. They’ll have paddled canoes, tied knots, and, for many, travelled the world. Despite the small size of the school and its location beyond urban centres, they will also have learned alongside others from diverse communities around the world and down the street. As alumni invariably say, they will have also gained a profound sense of community, having experienced how important they can be to a group, just as they’ve been lifted by it. Both Graham Vogt and Cheryl Bissonette noted to us that Rosseau Lake may not be “the school for everyone,” but, in many ways, perhaps it should be.

     
     

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    information not available

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    "This is my first year here and I can tell you for sure, there is nothing like it."
    robi pardo - Student   (Feb 08, 2018)
    If you are looking for a school where teachers care about the students, and treat them like friends ... View full review

    "an incredible outdoors, future forward, and inclusive school"
    Christopher Gan - Student   (Feb 08, 2018)
    Rosseau Lake College is an incredible outdoors, future forward, and inclusive school. Personally I l... View full review

    "Teachers were fantastic, engaging"
    Barbara Barclay - Alumnus   (Feb 09, 2018)
    I attended RLC in the 90's, for grades 9-13 (OAC) and had a wonderful experience. The dorm experien... View full review

  • 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."

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    "Rosseau Lake College is an independent co-ed day and boarding school established in 1967 in the heart of Muskoka, Ontario, a region dotted with pristine lakes and areas of hardwood forest. The lakefront campus provides the basis for an innovative academic program that immerses your child in powerful experiential learning that’s impossible to gain in traditional classroom settings. Our intentionally small school environment ensures meaningful relationships and a deep engagement in curricular and co-curricular life."

    • located within a stunning natural environment
    • small class sizes, allowing for individualized instruction and student support
    • opportunities for students to engage each day in outdoor activity
    • a global perspective through a diverse student population
    • a supportive environment where students feel valued, challenged, and empowered
    • member of the Round Square global network of schools.
    • member of the Duke of Edinburgh International Awards Program

    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."

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    "A key aspect of our program is outdoor education. In many people’s minds, outdoor education is synonymous with outdoor adventure and athletics. That’s one aspect of what RLC offers: education of the outdoors, learning how to paddle and swim and climb; experiencing the satisfaction of reaching a goal.

    It’s also education for the outdoors: learning about the environment, about what is happening to the ecosystems.

    And it’s education in the outdoors. The campus—forest, fields, lake, watershed—is essentially a 56-acre STEAM lab. You can test ideas here. Newton’s laws describe the motion of canoes just as they do a block descending an inclined plane. You can be inspired here. The natural setting brings a unique calm and focus.

    In all, we believe that outdoor education delivers the skills that post-secondary programs and employers are looking for: problem solving, decision making, critical thinking, teamwork, observation, synthesis, communication, and calm."

    Array

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

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    Information not available

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    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

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    "Rosseau Lake College was established in 1967, the year of Canada’s Centennial. The founders were of course aware of that, and in a sense the creation of the school was a centennial project. In a letter announcing the appointment of R. H. Perry as headmaster the board wrote, “As Canada prepares to enter its second century, there is a pressing need to equip its future citizens socially, morally, and intellectually so that they may meet the challenges of ensuing decades with courage, intelligence and understanding.” The letter ends by saying that the school intends to “do its modest share to help young Canadians face the post-centennial years.” It’s important that the founders were thinking in that way—thinking to the future, and to the needs of the students in their ability to meet that future. Ever since, that kind of thinking has been what has guided the mission of the school."

    Array

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

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    Information not available

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    "For us, the ideal student is one who is willing to try something new and to be open to new discoveries. The academic program at RLC seeks to maximize a sense of personal discovery. It’s the difference between spotting an owl on a trail walk and seeing it at the zoo: the bird is impressive in both scenarios, but the experience is vastly different. We want our students to see the owl, not because we show it to them, but because they discover it for themselves. That’s metaphorically true–discovery and experience is at the heart of our academic delivery. It's also literally true–there really are trails, and students really do see owls. At the end of the day, we believe that outdoor education is uniquely able to deliver that sense of discovery. We also feel it delivers the skills that post-secondary programs and employers are looking for: problem solving, decision making, critical thinking, teamwork, observation, synthesis, and communication."

    Array

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

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    Information not available

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    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."

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    Information not available

    Array

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

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    Information not available

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    "We have a lot that distinguishes us, the most obvious being that we're on a 56-acre property on the edge of a pristine lake in Muskoka. The region is home to some of the original Ontario summer resorts, and a nearby are the Windermere and the JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka. Given the celebrities who have homes here, the New York Times has called Muskoka the “Malibu of the north,” (if thankfully quieter and more reserved than the Malibu of the south).

    That said, our greatest distinction within independent schooling in Canada—and many would argue our greatest advantage—is scale. When people talk about small schools, they’re typically thinking of enrolments of a few hundred. Today at 130 students, we’re the smallest independent school in Canada. That’s intentional. Our students benefit from being visible and known to all staff, peers, mentors, and parent volunteers. They feel part of a community that wants to see them succeed. Because of that, we believe that small is beautiful."

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    Information not available

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    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."

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    "I think one thing that families don't expect is that we're in a typical Muskoka village. Truly, the experience of the village of can be a pinch-me kind of moment. There’s a bakery, a post office; there’s a farmer’s market, people walking their dogs at dusk, children jumping off the municipal dock on a late spring day. The Rosseau General Store has been operating here since incorporation, and the creaking, worn wooden floors are a charming reminder of its age. (Celebrity sightings are common, too, particularly in the General Store, given the cottages in the area.) In history, and feel, and that sense of community and safety, the village of Rosseau is a unique and delightful aspect of where we are and who we are. True, the village isn't a factor in our academic program, but it's a very important aspect of the student experience. Ask alumni about their time at RLC, and you'll invariably hear about how wonderful it was to spend those years in a charming village by a lake in Muskoka."

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    Information not available

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

    Information not available

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    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.

    “We are all one drum and we need each other”  – Richard Wagamese from One Drum

    Our incredible natural setting along with our small, cohesive community establishes a sense of home, belonging and immersion. We truly live, learn, and explore through authentic relationships.

    Nestled among the pines on a pristine 56-acre historic lakefront property in traditional Anishinaabeg territory, Rosseau Lake College offers a boarding and day school experience that is like no other in Canada.

    Students at Rosseau Lake College develop transferable dispositions that transcend time and place by understanding who they are and what they can achieve. 

    Our Discovery Projects represent our student centric beliefs. Students are able to express themselves, explore their passions, and demonstrate their curiosity and intellectual skills. 

    The Seven Generations and Rosseau Roots foundations are integrated into all we do along with our amazing Outdoor Learning. Students are immersed into academic pursuits that are integrated, meaningful and incorporate values, curiosity, our natural setting and relationships.

    Rosseau Lake College is unparalleled in our natural environment and small school size. We truly are connected to each other, our land, and our values. We have without a doubt an extraordinary school and experience that is a privilege to experience. 

    When students graduate from RLC they have developed the skills, knowledge, and confidence to take on any challenge. They are ready for anything.


    “Being immersed in our majestic, close knit campus is an incredible privilege. We are unique, proud, and joyful. Students develop character, personal expression and meaningful relationships with the land, self and others. Learning transcends time and place so students develop an everlasting sense of belonging and an understanding of who they are and what they can achieve.”

    – Dave Krocker, Head of School

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

      Montessori


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

      Information not available

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

      Information not available


      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.

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

      Progressive (sometimes called "in- quiry-based") curricula attempt to place children's interests and ideas at the heart of the learning experience. Instead of lessons being driven by predetermined pathways, progressive curricula are often "emergent", with learning activities shaped by students' questions about the world. Instead of starting with academic concepts and then tying it to everyday experience, progressive methods begin with everyday experience and work back to an academic lesson. Teachers provide materials, experiences, tools and resources to help students investigate a topic or issue. Students are encouraged to explore, reflect on their findings, and discuss answers or solutions.


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

      Not applicable

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

      Not applicable


      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"

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

      Rosseau Lake College is a preparatory school that challenges and empowers each student individually through the rigours and adventures of a highly academic program; one that is intentionally rooted in the vast opportunities of nature and our incredible geographical setting. Our teachers are relentless in the maintenance of our kind, caring and supportive personalized learning community while continuously innovating practices and approaches that make us a leading outdoor-education, environmental, indigenous-knowledge-based and experiential school. Students graduate from Rosseau Lake College with a strong sense of self according to each of our six Rosseau Roots, and the knowledge and skills that will allow them to truly thrive in the next phase of life. Our mission is to connect students’ lives to the natural world, enriching their education, health, wellbeing and personal development with a focus on cross-curricular project based learning, diverse learning strategies, and building skills and competencies for the future. Nature is present in every aspect of the school’s operations and is central to, and deeply embedded in, the school’s culture.

    • COURSE PEDAGOGIES

      • Mathematics


        Approach

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Equal Balance


        Our take: math approach type

        Our take: math approach type

        MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

        Not applicable

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.


        What the school says about their math program

        What the school says about their math program

        MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

        The Montessori math materials are incredibly exciting in both presentation and execution. Discovery and implementation are encouraged and supported and the students enjoy hands on manipulation of quantities and qualities allowing both a tactile and intellectual understanding of each new concept presented.

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        At the forefront of all subject areas in our Academic Program is building a love of subject through "real world" applications and experiences. At Rosseau Lake College we also work to explore the relevance and meaning of topics through the adventure of the outdoors and our natural, geographical setting. All of this is balanced by challenging and supporting our students with only the highest level of curriculum as offered through the Ontario Ministry of Education. Mathematics at Rosseau Lake College maintains an overall balanced approach of intentionally building a foundation of skills and knowledge while helping students to discover creative applications.


        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

        Some traditional books are used as support for the Montessori curriculum and materials at the elementary level preparing the students for high school. Independent research, peer challenge and an annual cosmic plan serve together as academic launch pad.

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Information not available


        Calculator policy

        Calculator policy

        MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

        Once a concept has been grasped in practice calculators are acknowledged as time savers.

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Information not available

      • Early Reading


        Approach

        Approach

        MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

        Phonics-intensive

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Not applicable


        Our take: early reading approach type

        Our take: early reading approach type

        MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

        Systematic-phonics programs teach young children to read by helping them to recognize and sound out the letters and syllables of words. Students are then led to blend these sounds together to sound out and recognize the whole word. While other reading programs might touch on phonetics (either incidentally or on a “when needed” basis), systematic phonics teaches phonics in a specific sequence, and uses extensive repetition and direct instruction to help readers associate specific letter patterns with their associated sounds.

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their early reading program

        What the school says about their early reading program

        MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

        MLCP supports the phonetic approach encouraged beautifully by the tactile, colorful Montessori material and objects so interesting to the young mind. With this approach, word attack skills are honed at a young age allowing for stronger reading at a younger age.

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Information not available

      • Writing


        Approach

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Equal balance


        Our take: writing approach type

        Our take: writing approach type

        MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

        Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.


        What the school says about their writing program

        What the school says about their writing program

        MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

        Students at all levels are encouraged to explore writing strategies appropriate to both ability and age. Each student is, through the systematic Montessori materials able to move, at their pace, towards development of interesting, well thought out and creative documentation.

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Information not available

      • Science


        Approach


        Our take: science approach type

        Our take: science approach type

        MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

        Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Inquiry-based science emphasizes teaching science as a way of thinking or practice, and therefore tries to get students “doing” science as much as possible -- and not just “learning” it. Students still learn foundational scientific ideas and content (and build on this knowledge progressively); however, relative to expository science instruction, inquiry-based programs have students spend more time developing and executing their own experiments (empirical and theoretical). Students are frequently challenged to develop critical and scientific-thinking skills by developing their own well-reasoned hypothesis and finding ways to test those hypotheses. Projects and experiments are emphasized over textbook learning. Skills are emphasized over breadth of knowledge.


        What the school says about their science program

        What the school says about their science program

        MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

        Curiosity is an instinct natural to students. Beginning with simple classroom experiments and growing into formalized scientific theory and substantiating evidence the student body develops through challenging instruction

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Information not available


        Topics covered in science curriculum

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

        Evolution as consensus theory
        Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
        Evolution is not taught

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Evolution as consensus theory
        Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
        Evolution is not taught


        Treatment of evolution (value)

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

        Zoology

      • Humanities and Social Sciences


        Approach


        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

        Not applicable

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Pragmatism in the humanities and social sciences emphasizes making learning relevant to students’ present-day experience. Assignments tend to centre around projects and tasks rather than argumentative essays; these projects will often have a “real-world” application or relevance. There might be more of a social justice component to a pragmatic program, though that isn’t always the case. Subjects like history and philosophy are still covered/offered, but they play a less prominent role in the overall program than in the case of perennialism. The social sciences (contemporary geography, sociology, psychology, etc), meanwhile, might play a more prominent role in pragmatic programs. The key goals are to make learning progressive and relevant, while teaching students real-life skills and critical thinking.


        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

        Information not available

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Information not available

      • Physical Education


        What the school says about their physical education program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

        Information not available

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Rosseau Lake College offers an active outdoors education program which makes great use of our 56 acre campus with over 3000 feet of shoreline on beautiful Lake Rosseau in Muskoka, Ontario, Canada. Climbing, paddling, hiking, camping, and outdoor pursuits and skills are developed in each grade (7 - 12).

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

      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.

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

      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.

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

      Information not available

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

      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.

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

      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

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

      Information not available

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture


      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.

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

      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.


      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.

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

      Information not available


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      MONTESSORI LEARNING CENTRE OF PICKERING

      Information not available

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

      "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

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    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

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    • Duke of Edinburgh's Award Program. A balanced, non-competitive program that encourages personal discovery and growth, self-reliance, perseverance, and responsibility to self and community.
    • Fall outtrips are a long-standing tradition at Rosseau Lake College. Each grade is assigned a five-day expedition in a remote area of Ontario, where students and teachers participate in activities like canoeing, sea kayaking, hiking and survival skills. Past destinations have included Killarney Provincial Park, Georgian Bay, and Temagami.
    • The House Cup is a popular fixture among students, giving plenty of opportunity to engage in fun activities while enjoying some healthy and friendly competition.
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    6 - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    10%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $10,000

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    85%

    Day entry years

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

    6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Not available

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Rolling

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - 8

    Yes: grades 6 - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    No

    Entrance essay required

    No

    Yes: grades 6 - 12

    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.

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    Rosseau Lake College is looking for students who are well-rounded individuals and those who demonstrate excellence in academics, leadership, service, extracurricular involvement.. and those who love being in the outdoors.

    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.

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    Step 1. The Paperwork

    Application Form, Teacher Reference Form, Academic Records from previous two years, and a non-refundable application fee of $200 CDN for Canadian students / $330 CDN for International students.

    Step 2. The Interview

    Once the paperwork is received and evaluated we schedule an interview. This can be done via video conference (zoom).

    Step 3. The Entrance Test

    Every applicant must complete an entrance test. The test is used to assess the student's fluency in math, their English comprehension and writing ability.

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available

    Alumnus (year)
    Accomplishment

    Jonathan Alderson (1987)
    Jonathan is a Sorbonne and Harvard university graduate. Jonathan is an autism treatment specialist, educational consultant , trainer and lecturer. He founded his company, Intensive Multi-Treatment Intervention.
    David Straiton (1983)
    Freelance film director and producer, currently living in Beverly Hills. His productions include episodes of popular shows on American television, such as House, Hemlock Grove, and Star Trek: Enterprise.
    Katie Tsuyuki (2001)
    Athlete, consultant, and motivational speaker. Named to Canadian Olympic Snowboard Team in Sochi 2014 and Pyeongchang 2018.
    Waubgeshing Rice (1997)
    Waubgeshig Rice is an Anishinaabe writer and journalist from the Wasauksing First Nation near Parry Sound, Ontario. Waub has published four books and won several awards for his writing.

Compare:

ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE:
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