AN OUR KIDS REPORT:The Children's House Montessori School vs. London International Academy

one-to-one comparison:

View The Children's House Montessori School's full report
VS.
View London International Academy's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    16150 Old Simcoe Road, Port Perry, Ontario, L9L 1P3, Canada

    361 - 365 Richmond Street, London, Ontario, N6A 3C2, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1994

    2002

    Enrolment

    125

    345

    Grades

    Nursery/Toddler to 8

    9 to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Girls, Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Boarding

    Language of instruction

    English

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

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

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Montessori

    Traditional, International Baccalaureate

    Curriculum pace

    Student-paced
    The main curriculum pace is non-standardized and is HIGHLY responsive to the pacing of individual students, (via differentiated instruction, differentiated assessment, etc). In theory, some students outpace the default/normalized curriculum, while others spend periods "behind schedule" if they need the extra time.
    Standard-enriched
    Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.

    Academic culture

    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”.

    Avg. Class Size

    Varies

    5 to 15

    Special needs support

    Learning, Behavioral

    Gifted learner support

    Dedicated gifted school

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Montessori
    Montessori programs aimed at preschool and Kindergarten- aged children allow young learners to choose which “tasks” or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles -- the essential features of these puzzles being they contain a “right answer” and allow for self-correction. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on learning being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with children developing a sense of self-sufficiency and confidence. Specially trained teachers act as guides, introducing children to progressively more difficult materials when appropriate. A Montessori classroom is typically very calm and orderly, with children working alone or, sometimes, in small groups.

    If you want to learn more about Montessori education, check out our comprehensive guide. You can also check out our guide to Montessori preschools, elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $9,500 to $11,500

    Boarding Tuition

    $28,000

    Financial aid (FA)

    No

    No

    Students on FA

    0%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    None

    None

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $0

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    10

    86

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    100%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    90%

    Day entry years

    9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Not available

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Rolling

    Interview required?

    No

    Yes: grades 9 - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    information not available

    LONDON INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Children's House Montessori, having begun operations in 1994, is well established. That it continues to be run by founding Principal Laurie Wilson Forbes continues the theme—this is a program that remains true to its founding principles, while drawing on a wealth of expertise and experience. The programming reflects the core ideals that Maria Montessori promoted in her work, those of respect, community, purposeful engagement, and self-directed learning. Staff are trained to international standards. Communication with parents is clear, open, and professional, something that begins even before enrollment. When families enroll they find more than a school, they find a home, which is exactly as it should be. The fee schedule is clear and detailed. Lunches are provided at the toddler and Casa levels, which is a lovely plus to the program. 

    View full report

    LONDON INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    London International Academy was founded in 2002 with an explicit attention to preparing students for success at university in North America. In the years since the student population has grown considerably, as has the school’s mandate. Today annual enrollment is 350 students who arrive from around the world. The school has developed a full palette of services with the international student in mind, including language instruction, university guidance, cultural exchange programs and a challenging curriculum. The ideal student is one with an eye to succeeding in post-secondary studies in Canada.

    View full report
  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    "Children's House Montessori School's large natural campus was founded in 1994 by Principal Laurie Wilson Forbes, who is still the heart and hands of the school today. CHMS closely follows AMI core principles to offer authentic Montessori programs. We are sized to offer a full range of programs, but still maintain a close, personal family feel in a small town community. Our caring, AMI trained staff foster a challenging and supportive environment for each child in order to prepare them for a lifetime of learning."

    • Laurie Wilson Forbes (Owner/administrator) of the school is AMI trained
    • CHMS follows AMI principles as outlined by Dr. Montessori
    • Beautiful, stand alone campus with large playgrounds and access to wooded areas
    • Reasonably priced high quality education

    LONDON INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    "London International Academy (LIA) is a Private Secondary Boarding and IB World School, located in the beautiful forest city of London, Ontario. LIA offers academic OSSD courses from Grades 9 - 12 for both international and domestic students. LIA offers not only OSSD and IB, but also a STEM Elite Program, Summer Courses, Summer STEM Camps, and offers four intakes throughout the year. *Scholarships available upon application*"

    • Ontario Secondary School Diploma
    • International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme
    • STEM Elite Program
    • ESL Courses
    • Four academic intakes in a year
    • Summer Camps
    • Summer High school programs 6 weeks

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    "Maria Montessori referred to her “method” as a “Scientific Pedagogy”. Montessori schools are not based on a curriculum but a scientific approach through careful observation of a child. Montessori programs are based on the individual developmental needs and tendencies of every child and support the full development of the human being. Children's House ensures programs that allow children to intellectually, socially, physically and psychologically to meet their full potential."

    LONDON INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    "London International Academy is the only private school in London to offer the IB Diploma Programme, also is the only private school in the province of Ontario to offer DP Spanish, 1 of only 16 private schools in Ontario to offer the IB DP programme; overall LIA ranked in the top 3 schools out of 500 schools in the Canadian mathematics competitio. Located in London Ontario the forest city is a slow pace and welcoming atmosphere, is an excess city for high school students and newcomers in Canada"

    Array

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

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    LONDON INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    LONDON INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    LONDON INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    LONDON INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    "The families that choose Children's House are drawn to the profound respect shown for the child and the limitless potential we see in each and every child who attends our school. They appreciate the friendly and cheerful nature of the staff, the community feel of the school and how that meshes well with the small town feel of Port Perry itself."

    LONDON INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    "1. Quality teachers with individualized support may more easily assess each student's performance level and take the appropriate steps to help those needing it.
    2. Experiential Learning: provide a well-rounded education that is more regulated and concentrated. Students can choose a mix of science and art courses depending on their needs.
    3. Career and future Opportunities: advantage when looking for university since we provide a pathway program"

    Array

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

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    LONDON INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    "Children's House Montessori is located next to the Scugog Community Centre. This location allows us access to soccer fields, baseball diamonds, walking trails, volleyball court and lets us enhance our program with ice skating in the winter."

    LONDON INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    "Our LIA Care+ program delivered by a team of accredited mental health professionals - empowers students to pursue personal success with well-being and emotional balance."

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    "Families looking into Children's House Montessori School are often pleasantly surprised to find that they are receiving an extremely high quality authentic Association Montessori Internationale Montessori program at an extremely reasonable cost. This is a conscience decision on our part to allow our school community a more diverse and well rounded student body."

    LONDON INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    "We help launch our students into post-secondary education for a successful academic, social, and cultural integration; with a strong track record of placing students in Canada's top universities and programs focused on meeting the needs of international and local ESL Students, LIA is ready to help students achieve the goal."

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    LONDON INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    LONDON INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    information not available

    The Academy prides itself in providing students with a challenging and excellent high school educational program almost invariably leading to admission to one of the leading universities in Canada. The school also provides a well rounded education with much organized social, recreational and educational activity at the school and class level. As testimony to the quality of our students and our educational program students from the Academy have achieved and continue to achieve outstanding results in mathematics, computing and physics contest organized by the Canadian Mathematics Society and the University of Waterloo.

    London International Academy has a first rate academic program, a fully qualified and very well educated teaching staff, bright and comfortable classrooms, continuous student counseling and advising, and a very effective and enthusiastic student support staff. All of these factors contribute to student enjoyment, motivation and adaption to North American culture which obviously includes the rapid acquisition of English. This is confirmed and illustrated by the tremendous disproportionate success of international students enrolled in the school in obtaining university and college places.

    London, Ontario is a healthy, safe and pleasant small city which facilitates student involvement in the local community. Students who enroll in the Academy will be embarking on a pleasant but rigorous and stimulating educational journey culminating in acceptance by an excellent university.

    Yours Sincerely,


    Paul Debenham
    Principal

  • SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT

    FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIES

    A - Forms of Support

    Accommodation:
    Modification:
    Remediation:

    B - Environments

    Indirect Support:
    Resource Assistance:
    Withdrawal Assistance:
    Partial Integration:
    Full-Time Class:
    Forms of Support Environments Forms of Support Environments
    ADHD (moderate to severe)
    This is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Children with ADHD may be hyperactive and unable control their impulses. Or they may have trouble paying attention. These behaviors can interfere with school and home life.
    Learning disabilities
    Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability)
    This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment.
    Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)
    This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language.
    Dyscalculia
    This is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money.
    Dysgraphia
    This is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.
    Language Processing Disorder
    This is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.
    Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD)
    These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills.
    Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit
    A characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination.
    Developmental
    Autism
    Refers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome).
    Asperger's Syndrome
    On the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour.
    Down syndrome
    his is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.
    Intellectual disability
    This is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation).
    Williams syndrome
    This is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems.
    Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
    Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems.
    Behavioral and Emotional
    Troubled behaviour / troubled teens
    roubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety.
    Clinical Depression
    This is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life.
    Clinical anxiety
    This is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror.
    Suicidal thoughts
    This involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.
    Drug and alcohol abuse
    This involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning.
    Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
    This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning.
    Physical
    Multiple sclerosis
    This is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties.
    Cerebral palsy
    his refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture.
    Muscular dystrophy
    Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.
    Spina Bifida
    This is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine.
    Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder)
    This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech.
    Blindness
    Visual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness."
    Deafness
    Hearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds).
    Cystic Fibrosis
    Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults.
    Multiple physical
    Accommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.

    Additional support

    Additional support

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    LONDON INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    INFORMAL SUPPORT FOR MILD DIFFICULTIES

    Learning Strategy

    Extra Support

    Mild but clinically diagnosed ADHD

    Accommodations

    Extra support


    Additional support

    Additional support

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    LONDON INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy


    What the school says about their special needs support

    What the school says about their special needs support

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    LONDON INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    Information not available


    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    LONDON INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    Each semester, teachers will indicate at-risk students and provide additional tutoring and counselling support.

  • EXTRACURRICULARS

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Badminton

    Baseball

    Basketball

    Canoeing/Kayaking

    Cricket

    Cross-country skiing

    Cycling

    Downhill skiing

    Equestrian

    Fencing

    Field Hockey

    Figure Skating

    Football

    Golf

    Gymnastics

    Ice Hockey

    Ice Skating

    Lacrosse

    Martial Arts

    Mountain biking

    Racquet Ball

    Rowing

    Rugby

    Running

    Sailing

    Skateboarding

    Snowboarding

    Soccer

    Softball

    Squash

    Swimming

    Tennis

    Track & Field

    Volleyball

    Weightlifting

    Wrestling

    Archery

    Curling

    Ultimate


    Clubs Offered

    Clubs offered

    THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    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

    LONDON INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    Ballet and Classical Ballet
    Yoga
    Yearbook
    Student Council
    Scouting
    Science Club
    School newspaper
    Round Square
    Robotics club
    Radio club
    Poetry/Literature club
    Photography
    Paintball
    Outdoor Education
    Outdoor Club
    Online Magazine
    Musical theatre/Opera
    Math Club
    Jazz Ensemble
    Habitat for Humanity
    Foreign Language Club
    Environmental Club
    Drama Club
    Debate Club
    Dance Club
    Computer Club
    Community Service
    Choir
    Chess Club
    Band
    Audiovisual Club
    Astronomy Club
    Art Club
    Animation


    What the school says

    LONDON INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    • we believe extracurricular activities are extremely important to having a well- rounded school experinece and feel that students who work hard deserve to have some fun and become more familiar with canadian culture
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    0%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $0

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    90%

    Day entry years

    9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Not available

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Rolling

    Interview required?

    No

    Yes: grades 9 - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    No

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No: grades 9 - 12

    Application fee required

    No

    Yes

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    LONDON INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    London International Academy (LIA) is looking for well rounded students with a focus on academics, who wish to continue their studies to post-secondary education. A student will be successful at LIA if they are community minded, a global citizen with respect for individual and cultural differences.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    LONDON INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    • completed application form
    • photocopy of your academic transcripts from your last two years of study 
    • photocopy of your passport
    • Skype interview with Admissions and Academic departments
    • application fee
    • tutition deposit 
  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

Compare:

LONDON INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY:
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