3 Sunforest Drive, Brampton, Ontario, L6Z 2Z2, Canada
2371 Shawnigan Lake Road, Shawingan Lake, British Columbia, V8H 2H1, Canada
3 Sunforest Drive, Brampton, Ontario, L6Z 2Z2, Canada
2371 Shawnigan Lake Road, Shawingan Lake, British Columbia, V8H 2H1, Canada
5,709.2 km
7,701.5 km
1969
2019
500
235
Preschool to 8
4 to 12
Coed
Coed
Day
Boarding, Day
English
English
Academic
Nature-based
Progressive
Progressive, International Baccalaureate
18 to 24
15 to 20
Accelerated curriculum
In-class adaptations
$18,800 to $19,625
$13,175 to $37,850
$53,650 to $65,550
No
Yes
0%
5%
None
4 to 12
$0
$10,000
42
26
0%
36%
85%
0%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
information not available
information not available
information not available
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Rolling
Yes: grades JK - 8
Yes: grades 4 - 12
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 reportSt. John’s Academy Shawnigan Lake is a small, globally minded IB World School where students learn in one of Canada’s most stunning natural settings. Combining rigorous IB academics with immersive outdoor and experiential learning, the school offers day and boarding options and a close-knit community where every student is known and supported. Small classes, internationally experienced teachers, and a values-driven culture help students build confidence, curiosity, and character. With strong arts and music programs, a vibrant boarding environment, and the option to graduate with both the IB Diploma and BC Dogwood Diploma, St. John’s Academy appeals to families looking for a nurturing, inclusive school that balances academic challenge with personal growth and nature-based learning.
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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
information not available
"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."
"St. John’s Academy is a close-knit, globally minded IB school where students are encouraged to explore, grow, and build confidence. We offer flexible graduation pathways, and blend academics with outdoor and hands-on learning. Surrounded by Vancouver Island’s natural beauty, students develop curiosity, resilience, and strong critical thinking skills. Our supportive community helps each learner find their path to become a good human with purpose."
"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."
"At St. John’s Academy Shawnigan Lake, we are a small school with a big heart. Our entire community—staff, faculty, and families—is incredibly supportive, nurturing, and passionate about student success and well-being. We offer a personalized, holistic approach to international education through the IB Middle Years and Diploma Programmes, with the option to graduate with the BC Dogwood Diploma. Surrounded by nature, at the foot of a mountain on lakefront property, we bring the outdoors into our classrooms through experiential learning that connects academics with real-world application. We’re a close-knit, inclusive school where students are known, valued, and encouraged to be curious, courageous, and true to themselves. Best suited for globally minded students—local or international—we invest purposefully in what we do best: strong academics, outdoor and wellness education, the arts, and a vibrant boarding program. Our graduates leave with confidence, resilience, and the skills to lead"
"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 St. John’s Academy Shawnigan Lake, we prioritize personalized learning, global-mindedness, and a nurturing community—and we’ve made intentional tradeoffs to stay true to those values. We’ve chosen flexibility over rigid standardization, allowing teachers to adapt learning to meet each student’s needs. We invest in connection, nature, and well-being rather than competitive athletics or tech-heavy programs. While we value physical activity and digital tools, they are used purposefully, not as focal points. These choices mean our students are known, supported, and challenged to grow as whole individuals. Families who join us value a school where heart, purpose, and personal growth come before pressure, performance, or prestige."
"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."
"St. John’s Academy Shawnigan Lake’s identity is shaped by a rich history of holistic education dating back to 1927, evolving from Strathcona Lodge Girls Boarding School to Maxwell International Baháʼí School and Dwight International School. Each phase emphasized personalized, values-driven learning in a close-knit, nature-filled setting. A recent milestone was our exclusive partnership with Pacific FC, blending elite football with IB academics. While ambitious, balancing competitive sport and the rigorous IB program proved difficult. The partnership’s end marked a turning point, allowing us to refocus on delivering a personalized IB experience that prioritizes academic excellence, wellness, creativity, and community. These key moments reflect our commitment to nurturing curious, courageous, and well-rounded learners prepared to thrive globally."
"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."
"St. John’s Academy Shawnigan Lake is a great fit for students who are curious, open-minded, and eager to actively engage in their learning. We’re looking for students who value community, enjoy a quiet, nature-filled environment, and are excited to be part of a small school where everyone is known and supported. Our ideal students thrive in a diverse, international setting where local and global perspectives are shared daily. They appreciate the balance between academics, outdoor experiences, and personal growth. We welcome families who understand that success is not just measured by grades, but by character, connection, and a willingness to step outside one’s comfort zone. Students who prefer large, urban schools or a highly competitive environment may not find the pace or setting here the right fit."
"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."
"St. John’s Academy Shawnigan Lake may not be the right fit for families seeking extensive learning support or physical accessibility, as we do not currently offer education assistants, and our campus—built into a mountain—is not wheelchair accessible. Families looking for a bustling urban environment or a wide range of competitive sports teams may also find our quiet, nature-based setting too remote. We offer in-school athletics, with a stronger focus on arts, music, and outdoor education. Our science offerings include Chemistry and Physics, but not Biology. We are a small, inclusive community that values kindness, respect, and global citizenship—families who prioritize highly competitive, high-pressure environments may find our approach misaligned. We have a zero-tolerance policy for bullying and expect students to be open, respectful, and willing to engage with a diverse, international peer group."
"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 St. John’s Academy Shawnigan Lake for our personalized, caring approach in a peaceful, nature-immersed setting. They appreciate our small class sizes, close-knit community, and focus on developing the whole student—not just academically, but socially and emotionally. Many families are drawn to our IB programs paired with the flexibility of the BC Dogwood Diploma, allowing students to pursue global goals while still being supported locally. Parents value the safe, inclusive environment where their children are known and cared for, especially those seeking a quieter, less competitive atmosphere. Our international diversity, strong art and music programs, and emphasis on outdoor and experiential learning also set us apart. Families who choose us often say they were looking for a school where their child could truly belong, be challenged at the right level, and grow into a confident, respectful, and globally minded young adult."
"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."
"St. John’s Academy Shawnigan Lake is seen as a small, welcoming school with a big heart and a global outlook. We’re known for our beautiful lakeside campus, surrounded by forest and mountain views, where learning goes beyond the classroom and into nature. People often describe us as a nurturing, community-focused school that offers personalized support and a strong sense of belonging. Our identity as an IB World School adds academic credibility, while our inclusive and international environment signals a commitment to global citizenship. Families and community members recognize that we value character, kindness, and connection just as much as academic success. While we may not be the most competitive or high-profile school in the region, we’re widely respected for offering a safe, engaging space where students are encouraged to grow into thoughtful, confident, and compassionate individuals."
"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 St. John’s Academy Shawnigan Lake is the incredible value we offer—educationally, personally, and financially. As one of the most affordable day and boarding schools on Vancouver Island, and possibly in all of BC, families often underestimate the quality of our IB programming, the depth of support we provide, and the richness of our environment. Our name is still growing globally, and as a newer school, we are often compared to more established institutions. However, what we offer—personalized education, a close-knit international community, and a stunning campus at the foot of a mountain and on lakefront property—is something truly unique. Families may see our location as remote, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. Our students learn in a setting that fosters focus, connection, and calm—things that can’t always be measured in rankings or reputation but are deeply felt every day on our campus."
"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 strong and personal the relationships are within our school community. What may seem like a small, quiet campus at first glance reveals itself to be a vibrant, connected environment where students are truly known by their teachers, peers, and staff. They’re often amazed by how quickly their children feel a sense of belonging and confidence here. Our international families are also surprised to see how well local and international students mix—we don’t separate groups; we intentionally foster a global, inclusive culture. Another surprise is the depth of learning that happens outdoors—our students aren’t just walking through the forest, they’re applying science, reflecting in journals, building resilience, and learning from the land. Finally, many families expect a modest offering due to our affordability, but discover a world-class program supported by passionate educators, creative opportunities, and a deeply caring school culture."
"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."
"We continue to invest in creating a vibrant, forward-thinking environment where students can thrive. Our new state-of-the-art fitness centre supports student wellness, and the addition of a kiln has expanded our already dynamic pottery and visual arts program. The campus itself continues to evolve, with flourishing gardens and old-growth apple and pear trees that reflect our deep connection to nature and hands-on learning. These enhancements reinforce our mission to offer a rich, well-rounded experience—nurturing students academically, creatively, and personally. We’re not just building a school—we’re growing a connected, inspired, and resilient community."
"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, St. John’s Academy Shawnigan Lake will grow thoughtfully, deepening our commitment to personalized IB education within a close-knit, nature-rich community. We plan to expand outdoor learning and enhance support for student wellness and creativity. Admissions is actively working to increase diversity in our boarding program and build partnerships with IB schools worldwide to offer students short- and long-term exchange opportunities. While maintaining our small-school feel, facility upgrades and sustainability initiatives will enrich campus life. Our vision is to strengthen the balance between rigorous academics, character development, and global connection—preparing students to become compassionate, thoughtful leaders in an interconnected world."
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
St. John's Academy is a place where students are known, challenged, and supported every day.
We’re an independent IB World School for Grades 4–12, based on Vancouver Island between the forest, the lake, and Mt. Baldy. We offer the MYP and DP to local and international students who are curious, capable, and ready to grow.
Learning here is active and connected. We take students outside. We give them real work to do. We ask them to think for themselves and care about others. We want them to leave here ready to shape their own future and contribute to something bigger.
What makes this school special is the people. The staff, students, and families are committed, honest, and fully
engaged. We show up. We work together. We take responsibility for the kind of community we’re building.It's impossible to give you a full sense of our school on a screen, so we invite you to visit us in person to learn what makes us special.
Josh Hart,
Head of School
Progressive
International Baccalaureate
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.
Some private schools offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programming. The "Diploma Programme" is offered to students in the final two years of high school, while the "Primary Years Programme" (ages 3 to 12) and "Middle Years Programme" (ages 11 to 16) serve as preparation for the diploma program.
Every subject curriculum aims to develops a well-rounded student. A progressive academic focus with an emphasis on character, values, and extra-curricular.
At St. John’s Academy Shawnigan Lake, the Seawolf symbolizes the spirit that shapes our community—curiosity in learning, strength in connection, and courage in leadership. Rooted in Indigenous legend and West Coast symbolism, the Seawolf reflects balance, adaptability, and respect for both land and sea. Our curriculum embodies this spirit. Through the International Baccalaureate framework and our outdoor learning pathways, students develop resilience, global awareness, and a strong sense of purpose. We blend academic excellence with hands-on, experiential learning so students not only understand the world but actively engage with it. Guided by our values of Courage, Integrity, and Caring, “The Seawolf Way” defines our approach: • The Explorer – experiential and holistic learning • The Leader – excellence and innovation • The Pack – community and wellbeing Every student belongs to the Seawolf Pack—a supportive, inclusive environment where relationships matter and every learner is known, challenged, and encouraged. Our mottos capture our identity: Curious by nature. Empowered to act. Stronger together
Traditional Math
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
Traditional Math typically teaches a method or algorithm FIRST, and THEN teaches the applications for the method. Traditional algorithms are emphasized and practiced regularly: repetition and drills are frequently used to ensure foundational mastery in the underlying mathematical procedures. The traditional approach to math views math education as akin to building a logical edifice: each brick depends on the support of the previously laid ones, which represent mastery over a particular procedure or method. Traditional Math begins by giving students a tool, and then challenges students to practice using that tool an applied way, with progressively challenging problems. In this sense Traditional Math aims to establish procedural understanding before conceptual and applied understanding.
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Letter formation and associated sounds are taught through direct instruction, then followed by application and practice
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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.
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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
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These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
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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
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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).
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Themes explored include life in earlier times, family traditions, communities and mapping - enhanced by frequent outings and field trips.
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These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
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Presentation and exploration of information, supported by topical presentations, speeches, debates, and field trips.
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These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
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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
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These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
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Regularly scheduled classes for music and visual arts are supported by frequent and high profile performances in class, festivals, and concerts.
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Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
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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.
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Classrooms are equipped with state-of-art interactive white boards and Chromebooks (i.e. laptops) are available for all classrooms via mobile carts.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Standard-enriched
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).
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
With Rowntree's smaller class sizes and direct teacher involvement, students have the opportunity to grow and develop at their own rate of progress.
Our flexible pacing allows students to progress according to their individual strengths and readiness. With small class sizes and personalized support, learners may advance in areas of strength or receive additional guidance where needed, ensuring both challenge and balance within the IB framework and our enriched academic program.
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”.
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”.
Our academic culture encourages and nurtures all of our students to achieve at their highest potential, with enrichment or remediation as required.
At St. John’s Academy Shawnigan Lake, our academic culture is rigorous, challenging students to reach their full potential through high expectations, personal responsibility, and meaningful engagement. As an IB school, we encourage students to think critically, inquire deeply, and approach learning with curiosity and purpose. Rigour, however, is paired with strong support. Every student is known, guided, and encouraged through individualized attention, advisory structures, and a caring learning environment. We value effort, reflection, and growth just as much as achievement, ensuring students build both confidence and competence. Our goal is for every learner to be inspired, stretched, and supported — prepared not only for university, but for thoughtful, courageous leadership in the world.
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
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Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
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.
At St. John’s Academy Shawnigan Lake, we aim to develop well-rounded, thoughtful, and capable young people who thrive academically while growing as balanced individuals. Our philosophy emphasizes the whole child: intellectual curiosity, emotional resilience, physical wellbeing, and positive social engagement. Through the IB framework and our Seawolf values of Courage, Integrity, and Caring, students learn to think critically, act compassionately, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. We challenge them to explore ideas, understand multiple perspectives, and engage with the world confidently and ethically. Our goal is to shape learners who are inquisitive, grounded, adaptable, and ready to lead with purpose—young people who know themselves, care for others, and approach life with curiosity and courage.
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Badminton |
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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
4 - 12
0%
5%
$0
$10,000
85%
0%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Rolling
Yes: grades JK - 8
Yes: grades 4 - 12
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.
We seek students who are curious, engaged, and willing to challenge themselves academically and personally. Successful applicants demonstrate a growth mindset, a strong work ethic, and a genuine desire to learn—not just for grades, but for understanding. Because we are an IB school, we value students who ask questions, think critically, and approach learning with openness and initiative. We also look for young people who contribute positively to their community: respectful, compassionate, collaborative, and willing to support others. Adaptability, resilience, and integrity are key traits for success at St. John’s Academy Shawnigan Lake. Students who thrive here are those who embrace new experiences, take responsibility for their learning, and are ready to grow into thoughtful, confident, and caring leaders.
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
Application Steps:
1. Submit your application through Open Apply
2. Pay the $300 application fee.
3. After the application is complete the following items must be uploaded to their online checklist: documents to upload, must be translated, and of good quality, in PDF or Jpg format:
4. English Assessment: for any newcomers to Canada and/or international applicants, whose first language is not English, will be required to take our Vital English Assessment, or provide one of the following supplementary English assessments:
5. Parent(s) Legal guardian(s) Proof of Citizenship & Residence:
If you cannot produce at least one utility bill, you will be required to produce a minimum of three current, supplemental documents, with a parents’/legal guardians’ name showing the residential (service) address.
Supplemental Documents accepted:
6. Interview and/or assessment:
7. Admissions Decision:
Following the interview and/or assessment, the Admissions Department will email that parent(s)/legal guardian(s) within two (2) weeks, with one of the following admissions decisions: Offer of enrollment, Wait-pool, or Declined.
Offer of Enrollment: to confirm a student’s enrollment, families will have 2 weeks from the offer letter sent, in order to pay feeds outlined in the invoice sent with offer.
Wait-pool: Student who are placed in our wait-pool are due to lack of available space in the grade applied to. Our admissions department will reach out to the applicant if space should become available from the wait-pool offer sent to the end of August.
If no space becomes available, then our Admissions team will reach out in September to ask if the family would like the application to be held over for potential enrollment the following year.
Declined: Our Admissions team will outline reasoning for declining an applicant. It may not be that the student is ready to join our school, and in those instances, those that are declined are invited to apply for the following admissions year.
8. Student Enrolment:
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