3 Sunforest Drive, Brampton, Ontario, L6Z 2Z2, Canada
1390 West 22nd Street, North Vancouver, British Columbia, V7P 2G4, Canada
3 Sunforest Drive, Brampton, Ontario, L6Z 2Z2, Canada
1390 West 22nd Street, North Vancouver, British Columbia, V7P 2G4, Canada
5,709.2 km
7,659.0 km
1969
2022
500
50
Preschool to 8
Preschool to 6
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English
English
Academic
Nature-based
Progressive
Progressive, Reggio Emilia
18 to 24
Varies
Accelerated curriculum
Dedicated gifted school
$18,800 to $19,625
$9,060 to $9,950
No
Yes
0%
5%
None
K to 5
$0
$500
42
5
0%
0%
85%
0%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
information not available
information not available
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades JK - 8
No
No
No
information not available
information not available
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 reportSaplings Nature School is an innovative educational institution that emphasizes nature-based learning and outdoor education. Founded on the belief that nature is a powerful teacher, the school nurtures in children a sense of wonder and a lifelong interest in the natural world. Classes are primarily conducted outdoors, allowing students to form a deep connection with the natural environment. This approach enables children to develop their adaptability and observational skills. The curriculum employs an inquiry-based and play-based learning model driven by student curiosity. This encourages children to develop theories, ask questions, and build critical thinking skills. Educators focus on documenting children's learning experiences and providing insights into their developmental journey, ensuring a personalized and responsive educational experience. The outdoor program promotes various skills, including problem-solving, creativity, and environmental stewardship. Students engage in activities such as using loose parts, creative play, shelter building, and practical skills like whittling wood and cooking on an open fire. Saplings Nature School aims to develop the whole child, addressing physical, social, cognitive, and emotional aspects of growth through nature-based experiences.
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"...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
"The teachers are clearly passionate about what they do and deeply knowledgeable about the subjects they teach."
harrison kwan - Parent (Mar 04, 2025)
My daughter, who is typically shy and takes time to warm up, was initially hesitant about joining Sa... View full review
"I love the small class sizes and the student-teacher ratio—it has made a significant difference in the kids’ ability to connect and receive the attention they need from their instructors."
Katrina Lazzarotto - Parent (Mar 04, 2025)
My kids absolutely love Saplings—it was the change we all needed after coming from a public elemen... View full review
"My son is learning about nature in ways that I wouldn’t think to teach him."
Dinah Fast - Parent (Mar 05, 2025)
Saplings has been an amazing outlook for my son who has boundless amounts of energy and enjoys a dif... View full review
"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."
"Saplings Nature School teaches students to connect deeply to place, to be active citizens, and to engage critically in the world around them. Learning in, with, and from nature benefits a student's motivation, mental health, and engagement. Based on the belief that nature is a powerful teacher, Saplings’ students become intimately tied to the natural environment, responding to an ever-changing outdoor classroom. Students deepen their relationship with nature, themselves, one another their community"
"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."
"By supporting our students’ fundamental need to explore, discover, share, and create in both the indoor classroom as well as in the broader, natural community that surrounds us, Saplings’ students learn to take important risks, develop empathy, and develop a rich and meaningful relationship with the earth. By fostering an intimate daily relationship with the natural world, suffused with observations and questions, our classrooms are saturated with emergent moments of inquiry, sensory entanglements, spontaneous learning opportunities, provocative conversations, and meaningful connections. These connections to self, others, and place foster students’ lifelong understanding of the need for sustainable practices, and our responsibilities related to the earth’s preservation. We aim to ensure that every student, as is their right, will experience the natural world as part of their education now and into the future."
"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."
"At Saplings, our commitment to outdoor, play-based, and child-led learning means embracing tradeoffs. We intentionally de-emphasize standardized academics in favour of nurturing curiosity and developmental growth at each child’s pace. Technology use is limited, as we prioritize sensory-rich, nature-based experiences that foster ecological identity. We value adaptability over indoor structure, choosing year-round outdoor learning even in challenging weather. Our focus on relational teaching means we deprioritize rigid discipline in favour of emotional safety and self-regulation. These tradeoffs may not align with every family’s expectations, but they reflect our core belief: children thrive when they are connected to nature, to themselves, and to their community. By clearly naming what we prioritize—and what we intentionally let go of—we aim to build trust and transparency with families seeking meaningful, values-driven education."
"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."
"Saplings Nature School was born from a deep-rooted belief in the power of the natural world to inspire, ground, and teach children. A key influence has been founder Heather Fraser’s grandmother, Susan Fraser, whose work in Authentic Childhood brought the Reggio Emilia approach to Canadian classrooms. Her legacy shaped our values: listening to children, honouring their voices, and seeing them as capable citizens of their community. Another turning point was the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced many programs indoors or online—but for us, it was a catalyst. We moved fully outdoors, embraced by the forest and shoreline, which reaffirmed our commitment to outdoor learning. These moments—one personal, one global—shaped our identity. Today, our practice is rooted in relational pedagogy, ecological identity, and child-led inquiry, deeply shaped by both ancestral wisdom and the challenges of our time."
"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."
"A child who thrives at Saplings Nature School is curious, imaginative, and eager to explore the world through hands-on, play-based learning. Our ideal student is one who benefits from open-ended inquiry, time in nature, and meaningful relationships with peers and educators. They are supported by families who value connection to land, community, and a slower, more intentional rhythm of childhood. Children who do well here often enjoy movement, creative expression, and solving real-world problems collaboratively. Our approach especially suits learners who may feel constrained by traditional classrooms and who flourish in environments that honour their voice, autonomy, and emotional development. We welcome all children as capable citizens and encourage those who are ready to grow not just academically, but as whole people—deeply rooted, joyful, and resilient."
"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."
"We want every child to thrive, and that begins with a strong alignment between our values and a family’s expectations. Saplings may not be the best fit for children who are consistently uncomfortable being outdoors or who prefer highly structured, indoor environments. Our program is rooted in nature-based, play-driven learning that takes place outside in all weather. If a child finds this overwhelming or resists engaging in open-ended exploration, they may feel out of place. Similarly, families seeking a traditional academic model with worksheets, grades, or a set curriculum may find our emergent, child-led approach does not align with their goals. Our strength lies in fostering curiosity, resilience, and a deep connection to the land—and we’re best suited to families who share and support that vision."
"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."
"Families choose Saplings because they’re looking for something different—something more intentional, connected, and aligned with their values. Many are seeking an alternative to conventional classrooms: a place where their child can grow at their own pace, build confidence, and feel a genuine sense of belonging. Our strong relationships—between educators, children, and families—are at the heart of what we do. Parents value the way we truly see their children and honour their individuality. They’re drawn to our commitment to outdoor, play-based learning and the way we foster curiosity, resilience, and ecological awareness. Families tell us they appreciate the space we create for joy, risk-taking, and meaningful connection to the land. Ultimately, they choose Saplings because they want their child to love learning—not just for school, but for life—and they trust us to guide that journey with care and intention."
"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."
"We believe Saplings is seen as a trusted, heart-led alternative to conventional schooling. Amongst the public—especially families seeking a values-aligned, nature-based education—we are known for our commitment to outdoor, child-led learning and our deep relationships with children and families. Our school is viewed as progressive, nurturing, and grounded in purpose. Many admire our focus on curiosity, creativity, and emotional growth, as well as our ability to help children develop confidence and resilience in the natural world. While some may initially view our approach as non-traditional, those who know us recognize the depth of thought and care in all we do. Word of mouth and community trust have been central to our growth and strong public image."
"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."
"One of the most underappreciated aspects of Saplings is the intentionality behind everything we do. While families often see the joy and freedom in our outdoor program, they may not fully see the deep thinking, collaboration, and care that goes into creating those experiences. Our educators spend countless hours observing children, planning provocations, and thoughtfully designing small group work that supports each child’s interests, needs, and development. We are constantly adjusting the environment—physically, emotionally, and pedagogically—to reflect what the children are telling us through their play. The fluidity and responsiveness of our approach can look effortless, but it’s grounded in rigorous professional reflection, dialogue, and trust in children as capable learners. This behind-the-scenes work is what makes our program feel so alive, and it’s a quiet strength that deserves more recognition."
"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."
"Families are often surprised by just how much depth, structure, and intentional learning happens in what looks like “just play.” While our outdoor, child-led environment may appear unstructured at first glance, there is a deep level of planning, observation, and pedagogical intention behind every part of the day. Parents are also surprised by how resilient, capable, and self-directed their children become—from confidently navigating forest trails to engaging in meaningful peer collaboration and problem-solving. Another surprise is how strong the relationships are—not just between children and educators, but within the whole community. There’s a real sense of belonging, trust, and shared responsibility that grows over time. And finally, many families are amazed at how their child’s connection to nature transforms into empathy, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning."
"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."
Information not available
"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."
"Over the next five years, Saplings Nature School will continue to grow intentionally while staying rooted in our core philosophy of outdoor, child-led learning. We plan to expand our grade offerings to support children as they move through their elementary years, allowing families to stay connected to our community for longer. This includes welcoming more students and possibly opening new nature-based learning spaces that reflect our commitment to land stewardship and ecological identity. As we grow, we are also investing in deeper professional development for our educators and expanding our documentation and assessment practices to better tell the story of each child’s learning. While we may grow in size, we are committed to maintaining small group experiences, strong relationships, and the thoughtful, responsive environments that make Saplings unique. Our growth will always be guided by what’s best for children, families, and the land we learn on."
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
Welcome to Saplings Nature School, a unique opportunity for your children to delve into the BC curriculum while learning with, in, and from nature. Here, we believe that children learn best and thrive socially and emotionally when given the freedom to explore, play, and connect with the natural world. Saplings fosters a student’s sense of wonder for the great outdoors through inspirational, stimulating, and hands-on experiences, which in turn promotes lifelong learning and supports student-driven interests.
Like the BC curriculum, Saplings aims to be learner-centered, flexible and focused on literacy and numeracy while supporting deeper learning through concept-based and competency-driven approaches. Key content, concepts, competencies, skills, and big ideas that foster higher-order thinking will also be addressed. Our goal is to help prepare students to engage in and respond to the ever-changing and demanding world they are entering. Through personalized, place-based, and curated learning experiences, Saplings' students are supported in becoming aware, thoughtful, engaged, creative, flexible, self-motivated, principled, respectful, and informed citizens who can think critically, communicate effectively, and make independent decisions.
As Head of School, who has helped Saplings transform from a home-schooling program of choice to a fully-fledged independent school, I understand how important it is to value and celebrate all of our learners' diverse abilities, identities, and experiences. I have a strong commitment to equity, and inclusivity, and to fostering an atmosphere of respect and trust for families, students, and staff. Welcoming families and staff members from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and ideas is what makes Saplings a place where everyone can feel like they belong.
Progressive
Reggio Emilia
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.
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.
Reggio Emilia programs are offered by some schools at the preschool and elementary level. The approach aims to develop curiosity and problem-solving skills through the liberal use of projects (as opposed to activities or lessons): teachers design projects for children around their demonstrated interests. Projects can be geared to an individual student, a small group of students, or the class as a whole. They can last from a few days to the whole year. Art is strongly emphasized and is typically incorporated into every project. Teachers actively participate in projects alongside students, rather than sitting back and observing. The philosophy calls for a high degree of parent involvement as well, particularly when forming curricula and project plans (which happens throughout the academic year).
Every subject curriculum aims to develops a well-rounded student. A progressive academic focus with an emphasis on character, values, and extra-curricular.
Our curriculum is project-based, and so is aimed to teach students a variety of skills and content relevant to their lives and interests. Projects aim to integrate components of literacy, math, science and the arts into each topic, thereby drawing the connections between the content and the core competencies as outlined in the BC curriculum. As student interests guide project inquiries, teachers provide explicit instruction in processing information and interacting intellectually through research, analysis, and thinking skills. Students are encouraged and supported to delve deeply into their learning through dialogue and experience.
Equal Balance
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
Our Mathematics teaching team focuses on developing skills in solving word problems, enhancing performance on test such as GAUSS, CNML (Canadian National Mathematics League), CTBS (Canadian Test of Basic Skills) and Mathematica.
Our math curriculum seeks to prepare students to apply their skills in a variety of real-life, approachable situations. Embedded within our project inquiries, students learn the connections between mathematical concepts and the real world. Students learn math skills including, but not limited to, graphing, measurement, arrays, functions, comparison, and patterning through interaction with physical and visual representations and introductions to more complex mathematical concepts as students become ready. Supported by student-lead class initiatives (class economy, fundraisers, and design projects etc.), math centres, complex reasoning games, differentiated math groups based on readiness and ability, and skills development lessons. Students practice math skills daily during various indoor and outdoor activities as well as specialized pull out skill-building sessions with a staff member. Our overall math curriculum is supplemented by the Singapore Math system.
Singapore Math
Information not available
Phonics-intensive
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.
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.
Our program approach would be best described as phonics-intensive up to and including Grade 3. From Grade 3 onward, our approach is one more of balanced Literacy.
Our literacy program is designed to engage students in and aid their understanding and use of a variety of communication skills including writing, reading, image reading, and oral language use to understand and convey meaning. The aim is to help students understand that language is a system whose parts work together. This approach is supplemented by UFli, a phonics program to help early literacy students recognize letters, sounds and sound pairings. Supported by a variety of activities including, but not limited to: literacy component of inquiry projects, daily quiet reading, differentiated reading and writing groups, oral storytelling practice, student read-alouds, sounds of the week for early learners, literacy centers, book studies for more ready learners, and journal writing.
DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
PlayRoly, Dolch Pre-primer and primer
Equal balance
The systematic approach to teaching beginner writing focuses on directly imparting explicit sentence construction strategies, along with planning, revising, and editing skills. Students are asked to learn these explicit strategies and skills and practice them before applying them in more holistic writing assignments. Grammar and parts of sentences tend to have a central role in systematic writing instruction.
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.
Letter formation and associated sounds are taught through direct instruction, then followed by application and practice
Information not available
Inquiry
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.
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.
Information not available
Our science curriculum is designed to support our students’ growing connection to the world around them, specifically our outdoor classroom areas. With an abundance of natural processes apparent and available to the students during the 3-4+ hours they spend outside daily, science is approached live in action. Inquiries surround what is going on at the time combined with the students’ observations and interests. Our outdoor classroom space contains forest, stream, and more urban areas and so provides a rich diversity of experience. Students discuss conservation, sustainability, responsibility, and reciprocity, and gain awareness that we are all part of one large system. Supported through daily free and guided inquiry sessions, frequent discussions, as well as the Learning in Depth program.
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Zoology
Equal Balance
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
Information not available
Information not available
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Expanding Communities
Usually focused on teaching history and geography at an early age, the core knowledge approach uses story, drama, reading, and discussion to teach about significant people, places, and events. Breadth of content and knowledge is emphasized. The curriculum is often organized according to the underlying logic of the content: history might be taught sequentially, for example (as students move through the grades).
The Expanding Communities approach organizes the curriculum around students’ present, everyday experience. In the younger grades, students might learn about themselves, for example. As they move through the grades, the focus gradually broadens in scope: to the family, neighbourhood, city, province, country, and globe. The curriculum tends to have less focus on history than Core Knowledge programs.
Themes explored include life in earlier times, family traditions, communities and mapping - enhanced by frequent outings and field trips.
Information not available
Not applicable
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
Not applicable
Presentation and exploration of information, supported by topical presentations, speeches, debates, and field trips.
Information not available
Equal Balance
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
Information not available
Information not available
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Information not available
Equal Balance
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
Regularly scheduled classes for music and visual arts are supported by frequent and high profile performances in class, festivals, and concerts.
Information not available
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Light integration
A major effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy throughout the curriculum and in everything students do. Digital literacy is understood to be a fundamental skill in the 21st century: it therefore follows, the idea goes, that teachers should find ways to connect every lesson back to technology. Effort is made to ensure the use of technology is meaningful and advances students’ skills beyond what they would otherwise be from using computers outside the classroom.
Computers are used in the classroom from time to time, but integrating technology into everything students do is not a dominant focus. Digital literacy is understood to be a legitimate skill in the 21st century, but not one that should distract from teaching the subject at hand, or more fundamental skills and literacies. The idea is today’s students, being “digital natives”, are likely exposed to computers and new media enough outside the classroom: the role of the school, rather, should be to develop competencies that may otherwise get missed.
Classrooms are equipped with state-of-art interactive white boards and Chromebooks (i.e. laptops) are available for all classrooms via mobile carts.
Along with the computer lab in the classroom, we also offer access to our STEM space which has 3D printers and Lazer cutters for the children to access while working on projects.
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Our approach to teaching physical education provides a specific blend of activities/sports, healthy living, and movement competence for each age level.
Information not available
Play-based
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.
Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.
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.
Saplings mission is to foster a sense of wonder, vitality and joy into the young students educational experience by supporting their fundamental need to explore and discover. By taking students outside the classroom and into a dynamic natural environment. Students deepen their relationship with nature, resilience, practice balance, and enjoy social growth. Saplings seeks to grown and support the every changing child with our dynamic curriculum based in experiential education. By fostering a students sense of wonder that promotes life-longing learning and interests we aim to ensure that every student, as is their right, will experience the natural world as part of their education now and into the future.
Student-paced
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).
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.
With Rowntree's smaller class sizes and direct teacher involvement, students have the opportunity to grow and develop at their own rate of progress.
Students are encouraged to work at their own pace in order to grow their skills and abilities in a supportive environment.
Supportive
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”.
A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.
Our academic culture encourages and nurtures all of our students to achieve at their highest potential, with enrichment or remediation as required.
Information not available
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
Information not available
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Not applicable
Not applicable
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Not applicable
Not applicable
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.
Information not available
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
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Badminton |
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Baseball |
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Basketball |
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Canoeing/Kayaking |
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Cricket |
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Cross-country skiing |
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Cycling |
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Downhill skiing |
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Equestrian |
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Fencing |
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Field Hockey |
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Figure Skating |
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Football |
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Golf |
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Gymnastics |
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Ice Hockey |
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Ice Skating |
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Lacrosse |
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Martial Arts |
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Mountain biking |
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Racquet Ball |
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Rowing |
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Rugby |
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Running |
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Sailing |
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Skateboarding |
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Snowboarding |
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Soccer |
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Softball |
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Squash |
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Swimming |
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Tennis |
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Track & Field |
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Volleyball |
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Weightlifting |
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Wrestling |
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Archery |
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Curling |
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Ultimate |
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
K - 5
0%
5%
$0
$500
85%
0%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades JK - 8
No
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades JK - 8
No
No
No
No
No
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.
At Saplings Nature School, we welcome children who are curious, imaginative, and eager to learn through exploration, play, and connection with the natural world. We are looking for students who are open to being outdoors in all seasons, who enjoy asking questions, solving problems, and engaging in collaborative experiences. Children who thrive here are often independent thinkers, creative storytellers, deep observers, and joyful movers. They may not fit neatly into traditional classroom settings but shine when given time, space, and trust to follow their interests. We value children who bring their full selves—big emotions, bold ideas, and quiet wonder—and are supported by families who believe in unhurried childhoods, strong relationships, and learning that goes beyond academics. We are looking for students who are ready to grow not just in knowledge, but in confidence, empathy, and connection—to themselves, others, and the land.
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
Families begin the application process by completing an initial application form through Lillio. Once we receive your application, we will invite you to attend one or more Stay & Play events. These visits give families and children an opportunity to experience our environment and allow us to get to know each other in a relaxed, natural setting.
Following the Stay & Play, if we feel the program is a good fit and there is available space, we will offer your child a spot. To confirm enrollment, families must submit a non-refundable deposit of $500, which will be applied toward the year’s tuition.
Please note that spaces are limited, and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. We encourage families to apply early and to ensure alignment with our values of outdoor, play-based, child-led learning.
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