3 Sunforest Drive, Brampton, Ontario, L6Z 2Z2, Canada
401 Reynolds Street, Whitby, Ontario, L1N 3W9, Canada
3 Sunforest Drive, Brampton, Ontario, L6Z 2Z2, Canada
401 Reynolds Street, Whitby, Ontario, L1N 3W9, Canada
5,709.2 km
5,668.6 km
1969
1874
500
240
Preschool to 8
4 to 12
Coed
Girls
Day
Boarding, Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Progressive
Liberal Arts, International Baccalaureate Candidate
18 to 24
6 to 14
Accelerated curriculum
In-class adaptations
$18,800 to $19,625
$32,000 to $35,000
$69,000 to $83,000
No
Yes
0%
14%
None
4 to 12
$0
$0
42
27
0%
17%
85%
100%
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 reportIt really is a castle, and the interiors are as striking as the exterior: turrets, arches, wood and stone. The school is also genuinely old, having been founded in 1874, though the building pre-dates the school. Yet, as ever, appearances can be deceiving, or at least can risk being made too much of. Trafalgar administration has, throughout its long history, consistently revised the curriculum and programs with an intention of providing, in a very literal sense, the best the world has to offer. That includes the adoption of the Singapore math and science curricula; Mandarin instruction; and writing instruction based on the program developed at the University of Chicago. A dedication to real-world learning has been built into the curriculum formally through the Beyond the Classroom initiative, which makes use of local resources and expertise, guided by the students' personal curiosities. Trafalgar offers an up-to-date, creative, and intentional program for girls preparing for university.
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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 all-girls environment at Trafalgar Castle School has been the key to my daughters’ success."
Kay Di Vizio - Parent (Mar 17, 2026)
Both of my daughters truly benefited from the many opportunities Trafalgar Castle School provides fo... 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."
"Trafalgar Castle School is an independent day and boarding school for girls in grades 4 through 12, where girls thrive in a diverse, close-knit community, empowered by future-ready learning and the confidence to boldly lead. Located in Whitby, Ontario, Trafalgar Castle School is small by design, ensuring that every student is personally known and supported through innovative programming, future-ready competencies and a welcoming community, all of which prepare them for the real world and a world yet to be imagined."
"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."
"While we demonstrate dedication to academics, cultivating emotional intelligence, resilience, and positive interpersonal skills are at the forefront of our efforts. Social Emotional Learning is something that sets Trafalgar Castle apart, and creates a supportive and empowering school community as students mature into adulthood. Students are given a safe space to use their voice and build their confidence."
"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."
"To maintain our focus on empowering young women, we've chosen to specialize in an all-girls environment, which may not suit families seeking co-educational settings. Our commitment to personalized learning and inclusive programs means we allocate significant resources to smaller class sizes and specialized staff, potentially limiting the breadth of extracurricular offerings compared to larger schools. Our historic boarding facilities, while unique, require ongoing investment to balance modern amenities with heritage preservation. These tradeoffs reflect our dedication to providing a supportive, empowering environment tailored to girls' education and leadership development."
"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."
"Our transformation from the Ontario Ladies' College in 1874 to Trafalgar Castle School marks a pivotal point in our evolution into a modern institution dedicated to girls' education. This legacy of empowering young women has shaped our focus on leadership and innovation. The establishment of our unique programs, like the Beyond the Castle experiential learning initiative and the High Performance Artists and Athletes Program, demonstrates our commitment to holistic education. Our ongoing dedication to inclusivity and reconciliation, acknowledging the land's ancestral heritage, reflects our effort to remain responsive to societal changes. These historical milestones have guided our vision and continue to influence our strategic direction."
"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."
"Our school is ideal for girls who thrive in a supportive, all-girls environment that emphasizes leadership and innovation. Students who are eager to engage in hands-on learning, embrace diversity, and pursue personal growth are well-suited to our community. Those who value a balance between academic excellence and extracurricular pursuits, and who are interested in developing future-ready skills, will find a nurturing home at Trafalgar Castle School."
"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."
"Families seeking a co-educational environment might find our all-girls setting less suitable for their preferences. If a family prioritizes an extensive range of extracurricular activities over tailored, specialized programs, they may find our offerings limited. Those looking for a traditional, lecture-based educational approach might not align with our emphasis on experiential learning and future-ready skills. Additionally, if a student prefers a large urban environment, our location in Whitby, with its small-town charm, might not meet their expectations. Families who are not interested in or supportive of our commitment to inclusivity and reconciliation might find our values misaligned with theirs. We encourage families to visit and explore if our unique environment aligns with their educational goals."
"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."
"Trafalgar Castle’s circle of care is second to none. We have advisors, coaches, faculty and staff that are always present for the diverse group of learners in our building. We recognize that adolescence is hard, and are determined to be a soft place to land while engaging in future-ready curriculum that ensures students are prepared for post-secondary life."
"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."
"Trafalgar Castle School is perceived as a prestigious institution dedicated to empowering young women through a comprehensive and holistic educational experience. Our reputation for fostering leadership, innovation, and future-ready skills in an all-girls environment is well-regarded. The historic charm of our campus in Whitby, combined with modern facilities, adds to our image as a nurturing and supportive community. Our commitment to inclusivity, reconciliation, and diversity is appreciated by those who value a respectful and socially conscious environment. The success of our alumnae network, with graduates thriving in various professional fields, reinforces our image as a school that prepares students for impactful futures, both academically and socially."
"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."
"Experiential learning is at the forefront of our education model, and it is demonstrated through our Beyond the Castle week. BTC brings students to new places and allows them to interact with different cities, communities, and people, thus expanding their knowledge on various subjects. This dedication to a student’s relationship to their community and real-life experience is one of the most under-appreciated aspects of Trafalgar that sets us aside from other schools."
"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."
"Firstly, we are a real castle! Here at Trafalgar, we embrace the traditions that have existed within the castle walls since it was built. Next, we are small by design - but our academic, co-curricular, and leadership programming is incredibly robust at the same time. Finally, our team puts forth incredible effort to ensure our students felt taken care of at all times. This includes snack stations, a well-rounded lunch, and shuttle for students to take to and from the Whitby GO Station."
"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."
"Recently, we've enhanced our curriculum to include more future-ready competencies, focusing on areas like STEAM, robotics, and ethical AI usage. Our boarding facilities have been upgraded, combining historic charm with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and supportive living environment for students. We've expanded our Advisor Program to provide more personalized guidance, fostering strong relationships and supporting students' social and emotional well-being. Additionally, our commitment to reconciliation has been strengthened by integrating Indigenous voices into our curriculum. These enhancements reflect our dedication to providing a holistic educational experience that prepares students for future challenges and helps them thrive in an ever-changing world."
"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."
"In the next five years, we anticipate further expanding our focus on future-ready competencies, integrating more advanced technology and innovative programs into our curriculum. We'll continue to enhance our commitment to inclusivity and reconciliation, incorporating diverse perspectives to enrich our community. Our facilities will evolve to support these initiatives, with potential upgrades to learning spaces and technology infrastructure. We aim to strengthen our international student body, fostering a global perspective and enriching cultural exchange. Our strategic direction will focus on sustainability and adaptability, ensuring our programs and community remain responsive to the changing needs of students. With continued support from our Board of Directors and the Trafalgar Castle School Foundation, we'll maintain our legacy as a nurturing environment for young women, empowering them to become confident leaders and innovators prepared for future challenges."
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
We are excited to introduce you to our all-girls' day and boarding school; a school unlike any other in Canada. At just over 240 students from Grade 4 to Grade 12, we are small by design where every student is recognized and honoured for the individual they are and no student slips through the cracks.
We believe the best entry point to a large and complex world is a warm and personal learning environment with ample opportunities for personal discovery and growth. This is what you will discover in our classrooms, in our hallways and on our fields. We have been at the forefront of girls’ education for more than 150 years.
Melissa Knight-Johnson
Head of School
Liberal Arts
International Baccalaureate Candidate
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.
Liberal Arts curricula share with traditional programs their emphasis on core knowledge-acquisition, but tend to borrow more best practices from the progressive approach. A Liberal Arts program might still feature group work and projects, for example, contrary to the more singular emphasis on tests and essays at a Traditional program.
IB Candidate School is an official term used to identify schools that have applied to IBO for permission to teach one or more of the IB Programmes.
Every subject curriculum aims to develops a well-rounded student. A progressive academic focus with an emphasis on character, values, and extra-curricular.
Trafalgar Castle School offers a rigorous, university-preparatory curriculum for young women in Grades 4–12, grounded in a nurturing and empowering educational environment. Our philosophy emphasizes holistic student development, supporting academic, social, emotional, and physical growth within a close-knit school community. Our program meets and exceeds Ontario Ministry of Education requirements and is guided by the Understanding by Design (UbD) framework. This approach allows our dedicated faculty to provide personalized learning experiences, including targeted support and enrichment opportunities that reflect each student’s strengths, interests, and needs. Through experiential learning and an emphasis on student agency, we prepare girls for both post-secondary success and life beyond the classroom. Future readiness is central to our mission. We integrate advanced technology skills, including the ethical and critical use of Artificial Intelligence, while embedding essential Future Ready Competencies such as communication, critical thinking, systems thinking, self-awareness, and adaptability. Trafalgar Castle School is inspected by the Ontario Ministry of Education, accredited by CAIS, and a member of leading national and international independent school associations.
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 Grade 4 through 8 program blends elements of Singapore Math with research-backed strategies to foster both conceptual understanding and procedural fluency. We emphasize the mastery of number facts to build a strong foundation, while simultaneously cultivating critical thinking through problem-solving and mathematical investigations. Our Senior School Mathematics program focuses on a rich Academic pathway designed to prepare students for Advanced Placement (AP) courses in Statistics and Calculus. Subject to instructional capacity and identified student need, we also offer alternative mathematics levels to ensure appropriate support for every learner.
Information not available
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.
At Trafalgar Castle School, we recognize that students joining us in Grade 4 bring diverse academic backgrounds. To support this transition, we employ a rigorous Structured Literacy approach grounded in data for Grades 4–6. We begin each year with a comprehensive suite of diagnostic assessments, including DIBELS for oral reading fluency and comprehension, as well as specific writing and spelling inventories, to gain a nuanced understanding of each student’s foundational skills. These insights allow us to immediately identify learning gaps and provide targeted remediation using evidence-based programs like UFLI. Beyond intervention, we deepen and extend literacy skills through explicit morphology study, conventions instruction, the Hochman Method for writing, and interdisciplinary literature studies. This ensures that every student is supported in reaching their full potential through responsive, data-informed programming.
No
We use DIBELS in Grades 4–8 to assess reading fluency and comprehension, informing targeted instruction and enrichment for every student.
Systematic approach
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.
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.
Letter formation and associated sounds are taught through direct instruction, then followed by application and practice
At Trafalgar Castle School, our writing program is built on a rigorous Structured Literacy foundation, utilizing evidence-based methodologies like the Hochman method and Jennifer Serravallo’s Writing Strategies to move students from sentence-level proficiency to complex, analytical expression. A data-informed approach based on diagnostic assessments in September directly supports our Future-Ready Competency of developing "Clear and Confident Communicators," ensuring students can advocate and adapt their messaging to diverse audiences. We integrate explicit AI Competencies into this framework. For example, rather than displacing human effort, students are taught to ethically engage with generative AI as a tool for "refining messaging" and "simulating audience response," while maintaining their own critical voice. By combining traditional mastery of knowledge and skills such as morphology and syntax with cutting-edge digital literacy, we prepare students to be not just writers, but effective designers of communication in a rapidly evolving world.
Equal Balance
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.
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.
Information not available
At Trafalgar Castle School, our science program serves as a dynamic testing ground for Future-Ready Competencies. While students develop skills such as collaboration and critical thinking, the curriculum places a strong emphasis on Systems Thinking and Design. Learning progresses from foundational inquiry in the lower grades to sophisticated, integrated application in the Senior School. This approach culminates in our signature Grade 11 Interdisciplinary Science Fair, where students work collaboratively to synthesize concepts from Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. By addressing real-world challenges through a tri-science lens, students discover that meaningful innovation extends beyond a single discipline. Scientific inquiry is further enriched through explicit AI competencies. Students learn to use technology as an analytical partner, applying tools such as bias assessment and constructive doubt to evaluate data and AI-generated models. Through simulations and advanced data analysis, students build digital fluency, critical judgment, and ethical awareness—essential skills for innovation in a data-driven future.
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
Physiology
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
At Trafalgar Castle School, our reading program is a seamless continuum that begins with a foundation rooted in Science of Reading research in Grades 4–6 and develops into advanced critical analysis. Embedded within our Future-Ready Competencies framework, literacy instruction emphasizes the development of Critical Thinkers and Informed Decision-Makers. Foundational skills are secured through Structured Literacy and explicit morphology instruction in the Junior years. As students move into Middle and Senior School, learning expands into a transdisciplinary study of literature, where texts are examined as reflections of history, ethics, and global systems rather than in isolation. In today’s data-rich world, AI competencies are treated as essential literacy tools. Students learn to apply assumption testing and bias assessment to traditional texts, digital sources, and AI-generated content. By generating and evaluating AI summaries or interpretations alongside original texts, students strengthen analytical accuracy, discernment, and independent thinking—skills essential for academic success and responsible citizenship.
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
Thematic
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 Thematic approach organizes the curriculum around certain themes or cultural universals. Students might spend time focused on food. Then they might focus on transportation or government, and so on.
Themes explored include life in earlier times, family traditions, communities and mapping - enhanced by frequent outings and field trips.
At Trafalgar Castle School, our Social Studies program (Grades 4–8) moves beyond memorizing dates to develop Global Citizenship and Systems Thinking. Using inquiry-based learning and design thinking, Junior students explore local communities, Indigenous reconciliation, and foundational geography. In Middle School, they analyze history and global systems, seeing events as interconnected and practicing empathy to understand diverse perspectives. AI competencies are integrated to build digital fluency. Students learn that, like historical texts, AI content can carry bias. Using Source Review, Multi-angle Evaluation, and Constructive Doubt, they critically assess AI outputs and cross-check with primary sources. This approach ensures students understand how information is created and interpreted, whether by historians or AI, preparing them as thoughtful, analytical global citizens.
Equal Balance
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
Presentation and exploration of information, supported by topical presentations, speeches, debates, and field trips.
At Trafalgar Castle School, the Humanities and Social Sciences program (Grades 9–12) develops sophisticated civic engagement and analytical reasoning. While cultivating all Future-Ready Competencies, the program emphasizes Critical Thinking, Informed Decision-Making, and Systems Thinking. Senior students progress from foundational inquiry to complex, transdisciplinary analysis. Courses in history, law, politics, and sociology challenge them to deconstruct systemic issues, evaluate competing narratives, and understand global forces. Learning focuses on human behavior and societal structures through ethics and evidence, empowering students to navigate ambiguity and advocate for just solutions. AI competencies are integrated to build digital literacy. Students apply Bias Assessment, Source Review, and Constructive Doubt to historical and modern AI-generated content. They might simulate geopolitical scenarios or analyze demographic data but are trained to question and verify outputs, ensuring they understand AI’s limitations. This prepares graduates to be thoughtful, ethical, and resilient leaders in a data-driven world.
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
At Trafalgar Castle School, language learning fosters global fluency and cultural empathy. Students study French and Mandarin from Grades 4–9, with advanced learners completing AP courses, while all Future-Ready Competencies are cultivated, particularly Clear and Confident Communication and Global Citizenship. From immersive, gesture-based approaches in the Junior years to literary and cultural analysis in Senior School, students learn to navigate cultures with respect and nuance. An optional after-school Spanish program further expands global engagement. AI Competencies are integrated to teach students to use language tools critically. Applying Constructive Doubt, they evaluate AI-generated translations, recognizing that tools may miss cultural or idiomatic context. By simulating conversations or refining grammar with AI and critiquing the output against their own understanding, students develop linguistic agility, critical thinking, and digital literacy—essential skills for authentic, effective communication in a connected world.
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.
At Trafalgar Castle School, the Arts program fosters self-expression, creativity, and courageous experimentation. While developing all Future-Ready Competencies—from Collaborative Team Members in ensemble work to Self-Directed Learners in studio practice—the program emphasizes Creative Thinking, Innovation, and Clear, Confident Communication. Junior and Middle School students explore Integrated Arts, connecting music, drama, and visual arts, building confidence through risk-taking without early specialization. In Senior School, students refine technical mastery, using the arts to provoke thought, challenge conventions, and reflect the complexities of human experience. AI Competencies are integrated to enhance, not replace, creativity. Students use AI as a collaborative partner for ideation, storyboarding, and design while applying Constructive Doubt and Bias Assessment to evaluate outputs. This ensures they remain the primary authors of their work and understand the difference between algorithmic mimicry and authentic human expression, preparing them to innovate ethically in a technology-driven world.
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Heavy 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.
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.
Classrooms are equipped with state-of-art interactive white boards and Chromebooks (i.e. laptops) are available for all classrooms via mobile carts.
At Trafalgar Castle School, technology is a fundamental literacy for the future. While cultivating all Future-Ready Competencies—from Collaborative Team Members to Kind and Empathetic Community Members—the program emphasizes Creative Thinking, Innovation, and Systems Thinking. Junior students begin with block coding and robotics, learning that failure is data for the next iteration. In Middle and Senior School, the curriculum expands to Python, app development, and engineering design. Students become active creators, designing solutions to real-world problems and understanding the systems behind technology. AI Competencies are integrated as a critical layer of learning. Students explore datasets and algorithms, applying Bias Assessment and Assumption Testing to audit code and AI outputs. By using AI for debugging or optimization while practicing Rational Thought, students understand why solutions work, avoid overreliance on automation, and maintain mastery over their tools—preparing them to innovate responsibly in a technology-driven world.
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.
At Trafalgar Castle School, Physical Education is a journey toward lifelong Physical Literacy. Utilizing exceptional facilities, including our double-court gymnasium, multi-sport court, and outdoor low ropes course, students in the Junior and Middle years focus on fundamental movement skills and confidence. As they advance to Senior School, the program shifts from general instruction to personalized autonomy. Through courses like Healthy Living and Personal Fitness Activities and Introductory Kinesiology, students become "Self-Directed Learners," designing evidence-based fitness plans that respect their unique physiology. We further enhance this agency by applying AI Competencies to athletic training; students learn to evaluate AI-generated workout plans and performance data, ensuring they rely on valid sport science rather than viral trends.
Not applicable
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.
Not applicable
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.
Information not available
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.
Information not available
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 Trafalgar Castle School, we combine rigorous academics with the nurturing support each student needs to thrive. We focus on holistic development, linking intellectual growth with social, emotional, and physical well-being. Guided by the Understanding by Design (UbD) framework, our program is highly personalized, providing gap-closing support and enrichment tailored to each learner. Experiential learning and student agency drive engagement, allowing students to develop their unique talents. By integrating advanced technology and Future-Ready Competencies throughout the curriculum, we prepare students not only for post-secondary success but also to adapt, innovate, and lead in a rapidly evolving world.
"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.
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 Trafalgar Castle School, we balance intellectual, emotional, social, and physical development. Our academic program goes beyond curriculum goals, cultivating future-ready students who think creatively, analyze evidence, and solve complex problems. We emphasize developing Systems Thinkers and Designers who can identify connections and design innovative solutions. We also recognize that high-level learning depends on well-being. From Grades 4–12, our programming supports students’ social, emotional, and physical growth, fostering resilience, confidence, and self-direction. By becoming Self-Aware and Self-Directed Learners, students gain the skills to manage challenges, engage fully in their education, and thrive in life beyond school.
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
4 - 12
0%
14%
$0
$0
85%
100%
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
Yes: grades 4 - 9
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 are looking for students that wants what Trafalgar Castle School is offering including: • A warm and encouraging environment where every girl is known and embraced; • A diverse and international student body and an inclusive community; • An acclaimed academic program where students reach high and achieve their best; • Social, emotional and academic support structures to promote health and wellness; • Learning experiences outside the classroom on excursions, adventures and exchanges; • An exciting array of clubs, sports teams, music ensembles and leadership opportunities; • A school where 100% of graduates are accepted into a university of her choice; and • A network of talented and successful alumnae from around the world.
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
Trafalgar Castle School operates on a rolling admissions process however spaces fill early. Prospective students are required to submit the following components as part of the application process:
Day students are also encouraged to spend a day with us to experience first-hand the possibilities of a Trafalgar Castle School education.
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