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Trusted by families since 1998.

AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Rowntree Montessori Schools (RMS) vs. Royal Ontario Academy

one-to-one comparison:

View Rowntree Montessori Schools (RMS)'s full report
VS.
View Royal Ontario Academy's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    3 Sunforest Drive, Brampton, Ontario, L6Z 2Z2, Canada

    121 Brunel Road, Mississauga, Ontario, L4Z 3E9, Canada

    Distance

    Distance

    5,709.2 km

    5,703.1 km

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1969

    2024

    Enrolment

    500

    295

    Grades

    Preschool to 8

    9 to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    eSchool

    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."
    Emotional
    The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
    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

    Progressive

    Traditional

    Curriculum pace

    Accelerated
    The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).
    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.

    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”.
    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

    18 to 24

    Varies

    Special needs support

    Gifted learner support

    Accelerated curriculum

    Preschool/K curriculum

    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

    $18,800 to $19,625

    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

    42

    74

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    85%

    100%

    Day entry years

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

    information not available

    Boarding entry years

    information not available

    information not available

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Not available

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades JK - 8

    No

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

    information not available

    ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

    RMS was founded in 1969, placing it within the first cohort of Montessori schools in the country. As with those of its vintage, RMS has a long reputation for providing a quality program, one that has a high fidelity with the core aspects of the method. The school has grown to comprise four campuses, allowing for a nice range of resources while also maintaining a close-knit community environment at each location. RMS has also grown into its own identity, one based in adopting new methods and approaches, as appropriate and when sympathetic to the school’s mandate to educate with an eye to achievement and leadership. The ideal student is one able to thrive in a close-knit, challenging, active, and social learning environment.

    View full report

    ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

    Royal Ontario Academy supports a wide range of learners, including full-time students, homeschoolers, international students, students with additional commitments, and those looking to supplement their day-school studies. Credits earned through the school meet Ontario curriculum requirements and can be used to satisfy graduation requirements and post-secondary admission prerequisites. Student support is a central part of the program. Learners have access to certified teachers who provide feedback and assessment throughout each course, as well as academic advising, technical support, and guidance services. Professionally developed course content, including multimedia resources and interactive learning materials, is designed to make online learning accessible and engaging while helping students work toward their academic goals. Designed for flexibility, the school allows students to begin courses at any time and complete them on a schedule that fits their individual circumstances, whether they are seeking credit recovery, grade improvement, timetable flexibility, or accelerated graduation. Courses are fully asynchronous, giving students 24/7 access to lessons, assessments, and learning materials without the need to attend live classes.

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

    "...RMS gave me the tools and resources to reach my full potential."
    Zayne Thawer - Alumnus   (Jun 14, 2018)
    I was a student at Rowntree Montessori Schools for almost 10 years, and in that time the biggest fee... View full review

    "The school leadership and administration do an excellent job to ensure the needs of the students and parents alike are met"
    Melicia Roberts - Parent   (May 24, 2019)
    Rowntree Montessori School (RMS) has become my child's second home. The academic and intellectual de... View full review

    "...teachers are able to assess the child's development and work towards coaching them in areas where there is a need."
    Salima Gilani - Parent   (Dec 04, 2019)
    My daughter has been in RMS since prep-one. Our experience with the school has been beyond excellent... View full review

    ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

    "I think the best part of the experience is the flexibility, but students should know that they need to be independent and organized to do well."
    Awatif Khan - Student   (Apr 16, 2026)
    My experience at the Royal Ontario Academy was honestly a mix of both good and challenging moments. ... View full review

    "The staff are very supportive and provide assistance every step of the way."
    Arielle Wallace - Student   (Apr 23, 2026)
    I have been attending the Royal Ontario Academy since the fall of 2025, and so far it has been a ver... View full review

    "The teachers are knowledgable and caring."
    Ben Slade - Alumnus   (May 04, 2026)
    My experience at Royal Ontario Academy was really good overall. One thing that stands out to me is h... View full review

  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

    "At Rowntree Montessori Schools, students build the confidence, independence, and academic strength to progress ahead of provincial standards through an enriched, Montessori-inspired approach. With individualized learning, leadership opportunities, academic competitions, and real-world experiences, Rowntree helps students develop the skills, creativity, and character needed for future success in a caring community where every child is known and supported."

    • Voted Brampton's Top Private School by the Reader's Choice Award for ten consecutive years
    • Montessori-inspired
    • Celebrating over 50 years of academic excellence
    • Three campuses located across Brampton
    • Accelerated academic programme
    • French programme starting in Junior Kindergarten
    • STEAM (starting in JK)
    • Leadership programs available for every grade level
    • Public speaking practice incorporated into curriculum
    • International learning opportunities

    ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

    "Royal Ontario Academy is an Ontario Ministry-inspected virtual high school offering affordable OSSD credits to students in Canada and worldwide. Our online courses let students learn anytime, at their own pace, with quick teacher feedback and personalized support. Students and families can register online and start anytime. We also offer PLAR for eligible students, recognizing prior studies so students can avoid repeating courses and move more efficiently toward earning the OSSD diploma for university admission."

    • Flexible, fully online OSSD courses accessible from anywhere
    • Rolling enrolment—start anytime, learn at your own pace
    • Same tuition for Canadian and international students
    • Affordable pricing with savings on multiple courses
    • OSSD credits recognized by universities in Canada, USA, UK, Europe, and worldwide
    • Don’t redo previous high school courses—free PLAR assessment may recognize prior learning
    • Courses are built in smaller-sized units to improve retention and connect learning to real life
    • Virtual simulated labs help students apply science and math concepts
    • Fast, meaningful teacher feedback supports steady progress
    • Finish courses in as little as 4 weeks or take up to 12 months

    What does school_name do differently or uniquely well?

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

    "At Rowntree Montessori Schools, we pride ourselves on our caring and stimulating approach to learning where we create a family oriented environment. Our smaller class sizes make it possible for teachers to develop close working relationships with our students and their families. We create a motivating and friendly atmosphere while addressing the individual learning needs and styles of each student."

    ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

    "Royal Ontario Academy provides caring, timely, and personalized support to every student. We take the time to understand each student’s postsecondary goals, including the university or college programs they hope to enter, and work closely with them to ensure their course progress and grades align with those aspirations. Whether a student is improving their grades or already performing at a high level, we support all learners with equal care, attention, and high expectations. Our courses are designed in smaller-sized units to support stronger retention, deeper learning, and practical real-life application, while virtual simulated labs in science and math help bring concepts to life. Quick and timely teacher feedback keeps students moving forward with confidence. ROA graduates have been accepted to top Canadian universities, including the University of Toronto, the University of Alberta, Queen’s University, Western University, Wilfrid Laurier University & many more across the world."

    What tradeoffs has school_name made to serve families in this way?

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

    ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

    "To maintain our commitment to holistic development and global standards, we prioritize small class sizes, which limit the number of students we can accept each year. This ensures personalized attention but may mean families face a competitive admissions process. With limited spaces available each year, we always encourage parents to start on the admissions process as early as possible. Additionally, our focus on integrating Montessori methods with modern educational practices requires ongoing professional development for our staff, which demands substantial investment in time and resources to maintain our high educational standards."

    ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

    "ROA has made a deliberate tradeoff by choosing asynchronous learning instead of a traditional live-teaching model. This gives students more flexibility and allows us to keep tuition affordable for families. To make that model effective, we have invested heavily in purposeful course design, creating courses that are interactive, engaging, and structured to support independent learning without compromising academic quality. By building strong courses rather than relying on constant live instruction, we are able to offer a widely recognized Ontario high school education that is low-cost, affordable, and accessible to students in Canada and around the world."

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

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

    ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

    "Our school's history is marked by key junctures that have shaped our current identity. Joining the International Schools Partnership was a significant milestone, aligning us with global educational standards and expanding our students' horizons. The integration of the STEAM curriculum represented a critical evolution in our educational approach, ensuring our students are equipped with the skills necessary for a rapidly changing world. Our consistent commitment to small class sizes and personalized education has remained steadfast, creating a nurturing environment where students thrive academically and socially. Celebrating over a decade as Brampton's top choice for private education, our history reflects a dedication to community building and educational excellence, evidenced by the long-standing relationships we have with our families and alumni."

    ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

    "Royal Ontario Academy’s present identity has been shaped by several important moments in its growth. From its founding as an online high school, ROA has focused on providing flexible, accessible learning opportunities for students in Grades 9–12. Another major turning point was the decision to invest in high-quality course design that promotes active learning, practical application, and affordability rather than relying on constant live instruction. This vision has been strengthened by the outstanding work of Dr. Karen McCloskey and Natasha Pomeroy, whose expertise in course development and instructional design has helped shape engaging, rigorous, and meaningful online learning experiences. ROA’s continued adaptation to modern education, including the responsible use of AI, has further defined its character as flexible, student-focused and academically strong, while maintaining an attendance policy that requires regular student engagement and interaction with course material."

    What type of student is a good fit for school_name?

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

    ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

    "Rowntree students are kind, considerate, and thoughtful individuals. They're naturally curious and always always growing. Our students will continuously seek unique avenues to education and appreciate one another. Students at Rowntree embrace new experiences."

    ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

    "There are many different types of students that benefit from studying at ROA:

    Students wishing to improve marks by repeating high school courses;

    Students wanting to improve their chances of being admitted into competitive university programs;

    Students that want to start early or advance faster than the traditional high school schedule permits, including Grade 8 students who want to reach ahead;

    Students that need flexible online learning that fits their schedule because of sports, travel, health reasons or other person/family reasons;

    Students from Quebec that wish to earn an Ontario high school diploma and receive credits for their French studies in Quebec;

    International students that want fair tuition, with the same price for domestic and international students; and

    International students that want to obtain an OSSD diploma and want to receive a free PLAR assessment to recognize previous high school courses from their home country."

    Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing school_name?

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

    ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

    "We would advise a family against choosing Rowntree Montessori Schools if they seek a purely traditional educational model that does not incorporate innovative practices or global perspectives. Families who prioritize large class sizes and less individualized attention may not find our environment suitable. Additionally, if a family prefers an educational setting that focuses solely on academic achievements without emphasis on social and emotional development, they might not align with our holistic approach, which integrates leadership and personal growth."

    ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

    "We may not be the right fit for families who want a traditional school experience built around in-person instruction or constant live, synchronous classes. Our model is designed for students who benefit from flexibility, independence, and thoughtfully structured online learning.

    That said, we are not a passive or impersonal online school. We believe online learning should never feel dull, disconnected, or purely transactional. Too many online courses are passive and uninspiring, so we have designed ours differently. ROA is built for families who want flexibility without sacrificing quality.

    We also embrace the realities of modern learning. In selected assignments, students may use AI responsibly as a tool to enhance their thinking and learning, while maintaining academic integrity and ensuring that all work reflects real understanding and original effort.

    For families seeking a flexible, high-quality and affordable online education, we believe ROA is a strong fit."

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

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

    ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

    "Rowntree Montessori Schools produces life-long learners and truly prepares our students for future academic and social success. Our diverse community and academically progressive programs, such as STEAM and Pre-K French, alongside our inclusive teachers and staff members result in our students consistently achieving above provincial standards."

    ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

    "Families choose ROA for several clear reasons. One of the biggest is word of mouth: they hear from other families, students, and partners that ROA offers outstanding value. We are known for providing strong, well-designed Ontario high school courses that are among the lowest price, without sacrificing quality. Families also choose us because our learning model is flexible, practical, and accessible for students in different situations, including those who need to repeat courses, improve grades, reach ahead, or study from outside Ontario or Canada. International families value that we charge the same tuition for domestic and international students, with no pricing difference. Many also appreciate our free PLAR assessments, which help recognize previous learning and maximize transfer credits. Overall, families choose ROA because it combines affordability, fairness, flexibility, and meaningful academic opportunity in a way that stands out from many other schools."

    How would you characterize school_name's image amongst the public?

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

    ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

    "Our school is viewed as a leading institution for private education in Brampton, known for its excellence in blending Montessori principles with modern educational practices. We are recognized for our commitment to nurturing well-rounded students, excelling academically and socially. The public perceives us as a welcoming and vibrant community where individual attention supports student success. Our reputation for innovative learning, particularly in STEAM and leadership, and our alignment with international standards, reinforce our image as a forward-thinking, dynamic school that prepares students for future challenges."

    ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

    "The most prominent feature of ROA in the public eye is its reputation for outstanding value. People see the school as a flexible, affordable, and top rated Ontario private high school that makes recognized OSSD education more accessible to students in Canada and around the world.

    The attributes most often associated with ROA are affordability, flexibility, high university acceptance rates, practical learning, and improved grades.

    It is viewed as a school that helps students move forward, whether by improving grades, earning Ontario credits, reaching ahead, or preparing for top universities. This simple but meaningful image reflects ROA’s brand identity: a student-focused online school that combines quality, affordability, and real academic success."

    What aspect of school_name is underappreciated?

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

    "Rowntree is partnered with International Schools Partnerships; this allows our students to be globally connected with over 80 schools around the world! Our student body partakes in global events allowing them to collaborate with students around the world. These events are hosted through clubs ran on campus, such as: ISP Scientist, ISP Chess Competition, ISP Virtual Buddy Exchange, ISP Math Contest, ISP Model United Nations, and ISP Film Festival."

    ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

    "An underappreciated strength of ROA is the combination of exceptional value and exceptional care. Our tuition is highly affordable, with no unnecessary extra fees or hidden costs, which makes a strong Ontario education more accessible to families. At the same time, ROA offers something equally important: genuine, personal support. Principal Phoebe Martin is known for being kind, responsive, and deeply invested in each student’s success. She goes the extra mile to support students and families, making ROA not just affordable, but truly caring, attentive, and committed to helping students succeed both in school and beyond."

    What do families find surprising about school_name?

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

    "Over the years, parents are amazed at how well-rounded our programme is. Rowntree setsour students up for success with their further experiences, both academically and socially. This takes place not just during regular scheduled classes, but also within the co-curricular programmes that are provided to the student body. Every grade is unique and the programmes provided reflects the transitions from primary years to middle years."

    ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

    "What may surprise families most about ROA is that our courses are designed to go beyond helping students earn credits or achieve higher grades. We want students to understand the why behind what they are learning and how it connects to real-life situations, examples, and future study.

    This approach is built into our course design by Dr. Karen McCloskey and Teacher Natasha Pomeroy, who carefully developed courses with meaningful application in mind. Their goal is not only to help students succeed in high school, but also to prepare them to apply their knowledge with confidence at the university level and beyond."

    What improvements or changes has school_name made recently?

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

    "Recently, we've enhanced our STEAM curriculum to incorporate the latest advancements in technology and innovation, ensuring our students are well-prepared for future challenges. We've also strengthened our leadership training, providing students with more opportunities to develop essential skills. Joining the International Schools Partnership has enriched our educational offerings with global perspectives and opportunities. Additionally, we've upgraded our facilities to support an engaging learning environment and expanded our professional development programs for teachers, ensuring they are well-equipped to deliver our unique blend of Montessori and progressive education."

    ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

    "A recent improvement at ROA has been the introduction of more comprehensive practice exams designed to better prepare students for their final assessments. These practice exams help students measure their readiness, understand expectations more clearly, and identify areas that need further review. This has given students greater clarity and confidence, while also contributing to stronger overall performance.

    Similarly, a recent update to ROA’s attendance policy emphasizes the importance of regular engagement and interaction with course material. Students are expected to participate consistently in their learning to demonstrate progress and maintain momentum. If a student’s activity falls below expectations, the Principal will reach out to provide support and ensure that learning continues in a responsible and structured manner."

    How will school_name change in the next 5 years?

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

    "In the next five years, we will continue to innovate by expanding our STEAM and leadership programs, further integrating international perspectives into our curriculum. We plan to enhance our facilities and technology infrastructure to support cutting-edge learning experiences. Our focus on fostering a nurturing and inclusive community will remain, with an ongoing commitment to developing well-rounded and globally-minded students ready for high school and beyond."

    ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

    "In the next five years, ROA will continue to grow by using expanding technology and artificial intelligence capabilities to make our courses even more interactive, engaging, and responsive to student needs. We expect to further enhance course design in ways that keep students focused, involved, and actively participating in the learning process. As always, our aim will be to use innovation thoughtfully to strengthen understanding, support student success, and make online learning even more meaningful."

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    Welcome to Rowntree Montessori Schools, where we have been nurturing tomorrow's achievers for over 50 years!

    At Rowntree, we offer a vibrant, Montessori-inspired education for children from Junior Kindergarten (JK) through Grade 8. Our seamless transition from Kindergarten to Elementary ensures a cohesive and enriching learning experience. We are dedicated to supporting each child’s growth—academically, physically, emotionally, and socially.

    Our elementary program not only meets but often surpasses the Ontario Ministry of Education standards, with a strong emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM). In a more traditional classroom setting, we blend the warmth and personalized care of the Montessori approach with 21st-century learning skills, creating an environment that fosters academic excellence and personal development.

    At the core of our mission is "Nurturing Tomorrow’s Achievers." We consistently evolve and improve our programs to ensure our students remain challenged and engaged. Our vibrant co-curricular offerings in the arts and athletics, coupled with in-school mentorship and community-oriented charitable efforts, equip our students to emerge as self-assured leaders both within the school and in the larger world.

    Selecting the right school is a significant decision, and we are here to assist you in this important process. We support students throughout their entire elementary journey, all while helping them build lasting friendships as they graduate from Grade 8. 

    We look forward to welcoming you soon!

    Darlene Schewske

    Head of School


     

    At Royal Ontario Academy, we believe effective online learning should be engaging, meaningful, and carefully designed to support real student growth. Our goal is not simply to help students complete courses, but to help them build understanding, confidence, and skills that will serve them well beyond high school.

    We are committed to ensuring that our courses are structured in ways that promote active learning, clear progress, and practical application. Students learn best when they understand not only what they are studying, but why it matters. That is why our courses are designed to connect curriculum expectations with real-life examples, thoughtful practice, and meaningful opportunities to apply knowledge.

    We also recognize that every student’s path is different. A strong online learning environment should provide both flexibility and structure, allowing students to move forward with support while developing independence and responsibility.

    At ROA, we are proud to offer a learning experience that is student-focused, academically strong, and designed to prepare students for future success in post-secondary education and beyond.

    Dr. Karen McCloskey

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

      Progressive

      ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

      Traditional


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

      Information not available

      ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

      Information not available


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

      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.

      ROYAL ONTARIO 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

      ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

      Not applicable

      ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

      Not applicable


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

      Every subject curriculum aims to develops a well-rounded student. A progressive academic focus with an emphasis on character, values, and extra-curricular.

      ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

      Royal Ontario Academy follows the curriculum guidelines established by the Ministry of Education of the Province of Ontario and is inspected annually to ensure compliance with Ontario standards for private schools granting OSSD credits. Our courses are designed to meet provincial expectations while also making learning clear, engaging, and relevant for students.

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach

      ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

      Not applicable


      Our Take

      Our Take

      ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

      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.

      ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

      Not applicable


      What the school says

      What the school says

      ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

      Our Kindergarten Montessori programme takes a balanced approach to learning by creating an engaging and highly academic experience. Students learn in a safe and nurturing environment where they participate in a variety of hands-on activities that promote critical thinking. Taking a Montessori-inspired approach to learning, children build a strong foundation in Mathematics, Reading, Writing, and Problem Solving. The programme is filled with opportunities to learn new skills, discover the world around them and experience positive social interactions.

      ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

      Information not available

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

      Student-paced


      Our Take

      Our Take

      ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

      The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).

      ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

      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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

      With Rowntree's smaller class sizes and direct teacher involvement, students have the opportunity to grow and develop at their own rate of progress.

      ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

      Our courses are designed to ensure students complete each lesson before proceeding to the next. This approach encourages steady progress, reinforces understanding, and helps students build the knowledge and skills needed for success in later lessons.

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture


      Our Take

      Our Take

      ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

      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”.

      ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

      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

      ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

      Our academic culture encourages and nurtures all of our students to achieve at their highest potential, with enrichment or remediation as required.

      ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

      For students who demonstrate strong engagement on our online learning platform and participate fully in all aspects of the course curriculum including frequent and open communication with their teachers and school staff, our Principal may consider requests for second attempts in certain situations and make exceptions where appropriate. This reflects our belief that learning is a process, and that committed students should sometimes have the opportunity to reflect, improve, and show stronger understanding.


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

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

      ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

      Information not available

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

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

      ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

      Emotional
      The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."


      Secondary

      Secondary

      ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

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

      ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

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


      What the school says

      What the school says

      ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

      Our aim is to shape students to be resilient, compassionate, inclusive and provide them with skillsets to make conscious decisions. Students graduate from Rowntree as well-rounded individuals.

      ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

      Royal Ontario Academy aims to develop independent, responsible, and resilient learners prepared for postsecondary pathways and beyond. We prioritize critical thinking, real-life application of knowledge, and strong communication skills, while fostering integrity and accountability. Through flexible, student-centered online learning, students build self-discipline, time management, and ownership of their progress. Course design emphasizes practical, real-world connections so learning is meaningful and transferable beyond the classroom. We also promote the ethical use of technology, including AI. Our goal is to graduate confident, capable, and motivated individuals who can apply their learning effectively in academic, professional, and everyday contexts.

  • 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

    ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

    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

    ROYAL ONTARIO 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

    What the school says

    ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

  • 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

    85%

    100%

    Day entry years

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

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Not available

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades JK - 8

    No

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    Yes: grades JK - 8

    No

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

    Rowntree students are prepared to fully engage in school life. Positive attitude, varied interests, respect for themselves and others, and academic capability are amongst the most important attributes for students and their families to bring to RMS. While the school has a strong focus on “STEM” (Science Technology Engineering Mathematics) oriented classes and activities, Rowntree is also well known for its vibrant arts and athletics programs, and community involvement.

    ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

    ROA admits students who meet the prerequisites for each course and are prepared to work toward their academic goals in a flexible online environment. Requiring prerequisites helps ensure students have the necessary foundation to succeed and fully benefit from the learning experience. Upon receipt of required admission documents, and for mature students, any additional documentation of prior learning or experience, the Principal reviews each application, completes an assessment, and provides recommendations on course selection and academic planning aligned with the student’s postsecondary goals.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS)

    Rowntree Montessori School challenges its students towards Academic Excellence while developing the whole-child.  We welcome all student applications regardless of academic level, learning styles or previous private school attendance.

    We do not administer entrance exams, however, through the Admissions process, each student will be assessed through one or more of the following in order for the school to make an informed Admissions decision:  observation, interview, more formal assessment and report cards, where appropriate.

    Click here to Submit an Application to Rowntree Montessori Schools for your child.  When submitting a new application, click on Create Account and fill in the information for the incoming student (candidate) and the parent who is completing the application. Once the Admissions Office has received the full application you will be notified about next steps. Additional required school forms and a financial contract will be assigned to the parent through the online enrollment system, when appropriate. 

    When submitting your completed application, you will need to provide copies of the following: Proof of Citizenship, Health Card, Immunization records, and report cards from the last two years for students who have previously attended an elementary program elsewhere. We also require your signatures on a financial agreement with the school as well as all the required payments.

    Bussing and Extended care are available at additional cost.

    Although we host a number of Open Houses throughout the year, please feel free to drop by ANYTIME for a tour at any of our Brampton campuses. We look forward to seeing you and sharing with you the school community of which we are so proud.

    For more information, visit rowntreemontessori.com/admissions

    ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY

    Required application documents:

    • A copy of your passport
    • A copy of your high school academic records
    • A clear and recent passport-style photo
  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

Compare:

ROWNTREE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS (RMS):
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  

ROYAL ONTARIO ACADEMY:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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