AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Westside Montessori School vs. Tapply Binet College

one-to-one comparison:

View Westside Montessori School's full report
VS.
View Tapply Binet College's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    95 Bellevue Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M5T 2N8, Canada

    245 Garner Road West, Ancaster, Ontario, L9G 3K9, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    2008

    1997

    Enrolment

    155

    16

    Grades

    Nursery/Toddler to 8

    7 to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Day, eSchool

    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.
    Emotional
    The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
    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."

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Montessori

    Traditional

    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

    Supportive
    A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.
    Supportive
    A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.

    Avg. Class Size

    10 to 24

    1 to 6

    Special needs support

    Gifted learner support

    Dedicated gifted class

    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

    $18,700 to $20,700

    $5,600 to $34,000

    Boarding Tuition

    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

    12

    3

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    100%

    100%

    Day entry years

    Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 1 - 6

    Yes: grades 7 - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    information not available

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    There are various aspects to the Montessori model of instruction, though Westside nicely addresses not only what Montessori is, but also what it can mean in the longer-term. Maria Montessori didn’t think small—her classrooms, she felt, could be a doorway to many things, including world peace. That’s a very big thought of course, but within it is that idea of the longer-term, the belief that education is about the future of a society through addressing the future of each child. At Westside, that’s very much the intention: to give young students the basis for success in their education, and ultimately, success in life. The vibrancy of the surrounding Kensington Market community finds its way, very happily, into the classroom as well. Core literacy and numeracy are important, though there is also an attention to esteem, executive functioning, and social interaction. Rightly, families look to Westside, often principally, because of the program’s attention to those foundations.   

    View full report

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    Private schools are created in order to address different kinds of learners, and different learning styles, and Tapply Binet is a great example of that. It’s a small school, which for the students who attend, is its great strength. The average class size is just 3 students, with none exceeding 6. As such, the program is very much student focused, and student led, in something akin to a tutorial approach to learning. Instructors engage closely with students, allowing them to interact with the material and with each other around the concepts being presented. Lessons are built to address the specific curiosities and perspectives that the students bring with them into the classroom. The goal of the program is to reward personal curiosity, and grow students’ ability to access and process information through that lens. The expertise of the staff is also a draw for the families that enroll—all instructors have doctorates and are specialists in the areas in which they teach. The ideal student is one operating at the top of his or her peer group, one who longs for an environment that will nurture their academic instincts, and who is preparing to continue to university.  

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    "They have instilled in her a love for learning..."
    Georgina Lopez - Parent   (May 08, 2018)
    I cannot say enough good things about this school. I am so happy I discovered it 4 years ago for my ... View full review

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    "He graduated from TBC as an Ontario Scholar, received early offers of admission from all..."
    Nicholas Richter - Parent   (Jan 06, 2021)
    Our son attended TBC for grades 9-12 and liked it so much that he stayed an extra year (also known a... View full review

  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    "From the earliest years through adolescence, Westsiders radiate self-confidence and a love for learning. Our two downtown campuses, each with expansive green space, offer Toddler (1.5-3yrs), Casa (3-6yrs), Elementary (6-12yrs) and Adolescent (12-14yrs) programs that are holistic, bilingual (French) and academically challenging, while staying true to Montessori Philosophy. Our children develop strong executive functions, a love of and connection to nature, and a sense of belonging and commitment to their community."

    • Outdoor Education
    • French Language
    • Natural Playground

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    "Flexibility best describes our approach to learning. We pride ourselves on accommodating student and parent needs. In consultation with students and their parents, TBC provides a program to suit the needs of the individual with full and part-time options with class sizes ranging from 1 to 6 students. Empowerment and responsibility given to students provide ownership and their personal sense of success and recognition as a member of their school and community."

    • Tapply Online School accepting new students
    • Interactive live courses with specialist teachers
    • Approved credits towards Ontario Secondary School diploma
    • Ideal for Academic Scholars and Elite Athletes
    • Proven success with students on an Individualized Education Program IEP
    • High teacher to student ratio
    • Career counseling programs
    • Extra-curricular activities for a full school experience
    • Highly engaging teachers
    • Staff are specialists in their teaching area

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    "Our team approach to education sets us apart. Together, staff are committed to reviewing student progress on an ongoing basis, ensuring the plan is optimal. Students are encouraged be part of this process as this fosters engagement in their learning."

    Array

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

    WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    Information not available

    Array

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

    WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    Information not available

    Array

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

    WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    Information not available

    Array

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

    WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    Information not available

    Array

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

    WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    "Families appreciate the dedication to their children's security and educational needs. "The Tapply staff are kind and helpful", as stated by one current Grade student."

    Array

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

    WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    "As we operate from a heritage building, once the home of the Marshall potato farming family, we reference the importance of family and community. The single dwelling offers a homey atmosphere to their educational experience. For example, we all share the kitchen!"

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    "We profess to accommodate and empower our students. Families are surprised by the length we go to make this a reality. This year, a Grade 12 student sat in on the interviews to hire a Chemistry teacher. Another Grade 12 student taught the Grade 7 science class. Our Science Fair event included all science students."

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    Children present us with opportunities to think about the world in new and fascinating ways. I am blessed to share my days with our Westside students and my evenings with my own child, who is three. A few months ago, when explaining to my son Wyatt that I work at his school and we may see each other from time to time, he began with the “Why? Why?” that educators and parents are extremely familiar with. He wanted to know why I work at his school, “Because I like to help children and teachers.” “Why?” “Because I love children.” “Why?” Up until this moment, the conversation had been easy, really easy. This was a huge question and he was awaiting my response, “I love children because within each child lies an opportunity for a better world”.

    Maria Montessori, who lived through two world wars, believed that through children, we can achieve world peace, and I quote,  “Establishing lasting peace is the work of education; all politics can do is keep us out of war.” Mahatma Gandhi met Maria Montessori in 1931, and she invited him to speak to a group of Montessori teacher trainees. He said, “If we are to create peace in our world, we must begin with our children.”

    They are right, if peace doesn’t begin with the children, it doesn’t begin at all. Spending time with these beautiful souls reminds me on a daily basis that anything is possible and they will lead us there. We must give them the opportunity, trust and confidence to make it happen. We must have faith in their development and know that they will arrive. 

    I invite you to set up a time to come to Westside Montessori School and learn more about our programs and the independent, motivated and compassionate students we are guiding. 

    Let me introduce myself, Sue Davidson, proud Principal of Tapply Binet College, a Brick and Mortar School established in 2003 and Principal of Tapply Online High School launched in April 2020.

    Education for our young people is an essential service. We will continue to engage them. That is the key to students’ success. Our flexible program delivery, always considerate of the students’ schedules and needs, provides the students with a personalized program. This will ultimately lay the foundation for a bright future and tailored-fit career path. Our philosophy is simple – Engage, Empower, Encourage in a fluid world. Students will have access to post-secondary preparation by our Guidance Counselor Specialist.

    Please contact us to learn more about how we are putting STUDENTS FIRST

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Montessori


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Information not available

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      Information not available


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      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.

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Not applicable

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      Not applicable


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Every child is an individual, captivated by different things at different times. We personalize your child’s learning experience by creating individualized lesson plans based on their interests, level of understanding and experiences. In this manner, every child is introduced to all aspects of our curriculum at the right time in their development. Children who graduate our program will be prepared for the next step in their education, private or public, with a genuine love of learning. They will have an increased curiosity about the world around them and the confidence necessary to take on new academic and social challenges.

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      Tapply Binet College delivers the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum and meets the requirements as it passes the Ministry inspections.

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach

      Approach

      WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Montessori

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      Not applicable


      Our Take

      Our Take

      WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      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.

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      Not applicable


      What the school says

      What the school says

      WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      The Montessori classroom is a nurturing, bright and spacious environment specifically prepared for children. At WMS, children engage in a variety of activities; some enjoy a snack, one child writes a story, others work in a group and the teacher introduces a new lesson to a student. The mixed age setting enables the older children to build confidence and leadership skills through teaching and helping their younger peers. Meanwhile, the younger children are inspired to adapt the responsible, mature behaviours of their older classmates.

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      Information not available

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      Pace

      WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Student-paced

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      Standard-enriched


      Our Take

      Our Take

      WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      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.

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Information not available

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      Information not available

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture

      Culture

      WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Supportive


      Our Take

      Our Take

      WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Information not available

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      Information not available


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Information not available

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      "We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

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

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

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


      Secondary

      Secondary

      WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Emotional
      The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      Intellectual
      The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."


      What the school says

      What the school says

      WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Information not available

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      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

    WESTSIDE 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

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    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

    WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    • With such as small student body, students are encouraged to get involved in activities outside of school.
  • 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

    100%

    100%

    Day entry years

    Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 1 - 6

    Yes: grades 7 - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    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

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    Students at Tapply Online School are as varied as at any school. All academic levels and learning styles are accommodated in our small familial setting.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    All students are welcome to attend Tapply Binet College.

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

Compare:

WESTSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  

TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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