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AN OUR KIDS REPORT:TMS vs. Western Heights Montessori Academy

one-to-one comparison:

View TMS's full report
VS.
View Western Heights Montessori Academy's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    8569 Bayview Avenue, Richmond Hill, Ontario, L4B 3M7, Canada

    6920 Millcreek Drive, Mississauga, Ontario, L5N 4J9, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1961

    2015

    Enrolment

    870

    100

    Grades

    Preschool to 12

    Nursery/Toddler to SK

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

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

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Montessori, 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.

    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

    Varies

    Special needs support

    Gifted learner support

    Accelerated curriculum

    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.
    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

    $19,100 to $32,700

    Boarding Tuition

    Financial aid (FA)

    Yes

    No

    Students on FA

    0%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    Preschool to 12

    None

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $0

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    54

    25

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    0%

    Day entry years

    Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes

    No

    SSAT required

    Yes

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    TMS

    information not available

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    TMS

    TMS was founded by Helma Trass, who learned the instructional approach from Maria Montessori herself. Trass was at the leading edge of Montessori education in Canada, and the school is, today, home to one of the longest running programs of its kind in the country. The elementary program that she began remains vital today, and it retains her dedication to the core ideals of the Montessori method. With the addition of middle and high-school programs, the school grew to become one of the largest Montessori programs in North America. The rebranding, from the initial Toronto Montessori Schools, to the acronym TMS, was adopted along with the growth of the school into the upper Grades. While the program is continuous, it is divided between two campuses, with preschool through Grade 6 taught at the Bayview campus, and Grades 7 through 12 at the Elgin Mills campus, which was opened in 2009. That campus is also home to the IB program, one that further extends an already impressive breadth of instruction.

    View full report

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Student-centred programs and an efficient interface with parents have endeared Western Heights to the families that turn to it. Now with seven locations throughout the GTA, it has all the benefits that come from a larger administration team, while also maintaining a close-knit, community feel at each of the schools. Teachers are skilled, qualified, and engaging. A strong core Montessori program is augmented with language instruction, including Mandarin, and music beginning at the toddler level. On-site catering, with lots of healthy options, is also a draw.

    View full report

  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    TMS

    "TMS teachers nurture students’ abilities to be free-thinking, independent, passionate, and intrinsically motivated from such a young age.""
    Alexandra Makos - Parent   (Jul 11, 2019)
    We have one child that recently completed the Toddler program, and who is moving on to Children's Ho... View full review

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    information not available

  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    TMS

    "Founded in 1961, TMS is a leading, accredited independent school that offers a uniquely designed framework combining the Montessori and International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes. TMS operates from two beautiful campuses in Richmond Hill, Ontario with exceptional learning environments for students of all ages and stages. Our Lower School (at Bayview Avenue and Hwy 407) offers a Montessori start for students from 18 months to Grade 6. Our Upper School (at Bayview Avenue and Elgin Mills Road) is the only independent school in York Region that offers the International Baccalaureate Programme for students in Grades 7 to 12. Our co-ed student population of over 850 thrives in academics while developing the life-changing mindsets of entrepreneurial thinking, positivity, and resilience that build a foundation for Significance at university, and in life. The unique design of the TMS student journey provides a framework within which your child can say I Am Known. Get to know us at www.tmsschool.ca."

    • Montessori and International Baccalaureate (IB) Programmes
    • Two beautifully designed campuses in Richmond Hill
    • Co-ed student population of over 850
    • New Middle School building opening soon (Fall 2023)
    • New Dining Halls open on both campuses
    • Competitive (CISAA) and house-league sports and athletic teams

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    "Serving the Oakville, Mississauga, Milton and Burlington communities with seven campuses since 2015, Western Heights Montessori Academy offers an enriched Montessori curriculum to children from six months to six years of age. Voted as the best child care centre in Oakville, we believe that every child is special and unique. It is our mission to bring out the full potential in every one of our students by offering a customized, engaged and enriched program in a close-knit, caring environment."

    • Enriched Montessori curriculum with specialized Music, French, Mandarin and Kids Yoga classes.
    • Diamond award winner of Best Child Care in Oakville by Oakville Beaver for three consecutive years
    • Schedule your private tour today: http://www.westernheightsmontessori.com/schedule-a-tour/
    • Contact us: http://www.westernheightsmontessori.com/contact-us/

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    TMS

    Information not available

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    TMS

    Information not available

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    TMS

    Information not available

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    TMS

    Information not available

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    TMS

    Information not available

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    TMS

    Information not available

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    TMS

    Information not available

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    TMS

    Information not available

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    TMS

    Information not available

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    TMS

    Information not available

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    TMS

    Information not available

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    TMS

    Thank you for your interest in TMS!

    It is a pleasure to share with you some of the special features that give our school its unique identity and which inspire those of us who work here to give our very best to every child. Our students experience a warm and nurturing environment every single day when they walk through our doors. We are a community of caring and innovative educators and support staff, and students who continually amaze us with their artistic, academic, athletic, and linguistic prowess and their desire to grow and develop as responsible young citizens.

    We appreciate that a school is more than a collection of individuals. For us, a school is a place where lasting relationships are formed, where lifelong interests and aptitudes develop, and where character is refined and shaped by exposure to a wide range of beliefs, traditions and views of the world. Finding the right school for your children is one of the most important gifts you can bestow upon them. Our students develop strong attachments to TMS, both during their time with us and after they leave us. When our graduates venture off into the world, they do so equipped with the knowledge, resilience and sound ethical framework that comes from being known and cared for deeply as individuals.

    Indeed, the phrase I Am Known sums up in a few words our entire approach to educating children. From the youngest children in our Toddler program to our graduating classes in Grade 12, our students know the feeling of being supported and guided as unique individuals.

    We place high value at TMS on academic rigour and our graduates are accepted at outstanding universities in Canada and abroad. Of equal importance to us, however, is that our students leave TMS not only with a broad knowledge base but with an educated heart and an internationally-minded outlook on the world.

    As a leading Montessori school in Canada, we believe strongly in the world-class education that TMS teachers provide our 18 month-old to Grade 6 students. Beginning in Grade 7, we offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme which culminates in the IB Diploma Program in Grades 11 and 12. The IB is globally recognized as a rigorous and holistic curriculum which provides an outstanding preparation for university studies. Our skilled and experienced IB teachers help our students to achieve their full potential, and our IB scores are well above the world average.

    During these very challenging times for all of us, TMS has continued to offer an outstanding education to our students. As we open our doors for the new school year, we will continue to do everything possible to keep our students and staff safe and well, and to promote the values that have guided our school for the past 60 years.

    I invite you to contact our Enrolment Management team for much more information about our programs, people and facilities. Ask questions, explore our website, schedule a virtual visit and let us invite you to learn more about one of the leading independent schools in Ontario.

    Yours sincerely,

    Andrew Cross
    Head of School
    TMS
     

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    information not available

  • SCHOOL GALLERY

    Campus

    Campus

    TMS
     

    Classrooms

    Classrooms

    TMS
     

    Shared spaces

    Shared spaces

    TMS
     

    Athletics facilities

    Athletics facilities

    TMS
     

    Arts facilities

    Arts facilities

    TMS
     

    Science facilities

    Science facilities

    TMS
     

    Instructional resources

    Instructional resources

    TMS
     

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM

      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      TMS

      Montessori

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      Information not available

      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      TMS

      International Baccalaureate

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      Information not available

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      TMS

      Particularly popular in the younger grades (preschool to elementary), but sometimes available all the way up to high school, Montessori schools offer an alternative vision to the standard lesson format of most classrooms. Instead of listening to whole-class lessons, Montessori classrooms allow students to choose which "tasks" or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles - their essential feature being they contain a right answer and allow for selfcorrection. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on lessons being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with students developing a sense of self-sufficiency, confidence and curiosity.

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      Not applicable

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      TMS

      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.

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      Not applicable

      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      TMS

      Lower School - 18 months to Grade 6 Internationally Recognized Flagship Montessori Program Upper School - Grade 7 to 10 International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Grade 11 to 12 International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) TMS students thrive in academics while developing the life-changing mindsets of entrepreneurial thinking, positivity, and resilience that build a foundation for Significance not just at university, but in life.

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      Information not available

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM

      Approach

      Approach

      TMS

      Montessori

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      Montessori

      Our Take

      Our Take

      TMS

      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.

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      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.

      What the school says

      What the school says

      TMS

      TMS has garnered a reputation for creating an extraordinary learning environment. Up to Grade 6, the curriculum is based on the core premise of a Montessori education: that students need to drive their own learning. Using materials and processes that make abstract ideas concrete, students initiate their learning and can assess their own progress. This balance between the freedom and responsibility of a child produces highly competent learners who are self-reliant, self-disciplined and self-confident.

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      Information not available

    • CURRICULUM PACE

      Pace

      Pace

      TMS

      Student-paced

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      Not applicable

      Our Take

      Our Take

      TMS

      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.

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      Not applicable

      What the school says

      What the school says

      TMS

      Montessori Program - Toddler to Grade 6 IB MYP and DP- Grades 7 to 12 Varies by level

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      Information not available

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE

      Culture

      Culture

      TMS

      Rigorous

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      Not applicable

      Our Take

      Our Take

      TMS

      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”.

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      Not applicable

      What the school says

      What the school says

      TMS

      TMS offers a uniquely designed framework that combines a Montessori start and International Baccalaureate (IB) finish. Our academics are rigorous and each student is "known" and supported. We deliver an accredited educational experience designed to inspire and challenge students to discover the best of who they are and to achieve their full potential.

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      Information not available

      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      TMS

      Information not available

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      Information not available

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES

      Primary

      Primary

      TMS

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

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      Not applicable
      Not applicable

      Secondary

      Secondary

      TMS

      Not applicable
      Not applicable

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      Not applicable
      Not applicable

      What the school says

      What the school says

      TMS

      At TMS every student is "Known". TMS provides an environment where students are cared for. TMS students are given a foundation to grow, to be ambitious and bold. TMS creates opportunities for children to be inspired by learning through experimentation, exploration, and self-discovery.

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      Information not available

  • 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

    TMS

    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

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

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

    What the school says

    What the school says

    TMS

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    • We offer Kids Yoga, French, Mandarin, and Music class in addition to our Montessori curriculum. As a school with diverse community, we also showcase our learning through culture avenue via our international week open house event!

  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    Preschool - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    0%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $0

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    0%

    Day entry years

    Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes

    No

    SSAT required

    Yes

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    Yes

    No

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    TMS

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Our children are Infants, Toddlers, Preschoolers and Kindergarteners. They are very young! We would love to have students who are interested and eager to explore the world around them and strive to be independent!

    What the school says

    What the school says

    TMS
    1. Submit the online application with the following:
      • A copy of your child’s birth certificate or passport photo page,
      • $150 application fee,
      • Copies of your child’s final report cards from the last 2 academic years.
    2. In order for your child’s application to be considered for the next steps, the Confidential School Report must also be received. This form must be completed by your child’s teacher, and sent directly to the Admissions Office.
    3. Your child will be invited to an in-person interview and grade-appropriate assessment.
      • In lieu of the TMS assessment, Upper School applicants may opt to write the SSAT. SSAT results must be sent to the Admissions Office..

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    1) Schedule a tour at our each individual campuses to get to know more about the curriculum, learning environment and get all your questions answered

    2) Meet-and-Greet with the child during the tour

    3) Submit enrollment forms with a copy of your child's immunization records

    4) Make deposit payment 

     

     

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

Compare:

TMS:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  

WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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