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Montessori schools in Markham

Find the top Montessori schools and programs in Markham.

Welcome to the OUR KIDS guide to Montessori schools in Markham—your introduction to child-focused education that nurtures independence, creativity, and confidence. Montessori programs in Markham encourage self-directed learning, hands-on exploration, and mixed-age classrooms, helping children grow at their own pace while developing critical thinking and a love of learning.

On this page, we cover private schools in the Markham area that offer Montessori programs and support. This includes Montessori schools in downtown Markham, Markham Village, Stouffville, Thornhill, Unionville, Cedarwood, Greensborough, and Langstaff.

For over 30 years, OUR KIDS has worked with schools, families, and educators to share trusted insights into what makes each program unique. On OurKids.net, you’ll find verified profiles, parent reviews, comparison tools, and expert resources to support your decision. For a more complete guide to Montessori education, including an overview of the Montessori philosophy, start with our guide to Montessori schools.

2. Choosing a school

For general advice on how to choose and evaluate private schools, check out our choosing a school guide and get advice from leading education experts. For advice on choosing Montessori schools, see our main Montessori school guide. You can also read our guides to questions to ask private schools and questions students get asked at school interviews.

Private school expos

Private school expos are a great starting point for finding a school, at any level. We have annual private school expos in Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Ottawa, Calgary, and Halton-Peel. These expos allow you to speak with lots of private schools in Canada, some of which are Montessori schools, all in one place. Find a Montessori school near you.

Open house events

Attending open houses is a great way to learn more about schools. For general advice on open house visits, check out our guide on school visits.

3. How much does a Montessori school in Markham cost?

The cost of a Markham Montessori school or preschool is generally lower than that of other private schools in the city. In fact, a Markham Montessori school often falls on the lower end of private school tuition in general, making it an attractive option for many families.

Many Montessori schools in Markham also provide needs-based financial aid, such as bursaries or tuition relief. Some schools, though fewer, offer merit-based scholarships for achievements in areas such as academics or athletics. You can learn more about need- and merit-based financial aid in our dedicated guide. You can also read our guide to preschool costs and funding.

Below, you’ll find the range of costs for Markham Montessori private schools and preschools, giving parents a clearer picture of tuition expectations before choosing the right Montessori program for their child.

Academics

Special needs support

Montessori schools in Markham, as well as nearby Vaughan and Scarborough, often feature mixed-age classrooms with high teacher-to-student ratios. In a typical Markham Montessori school, students engage in lots of peer interaction, student-to-student teaching, and both group and independent work.

Below, the Montessori philosophy and teaching approach is discussed in more detail. For more comprehensive coverage, see our main Montessori school guide.

Montessori philosophy

The Montessori philosophy of education is unique. Some of the main principles of this philosophy are the following:

Student-centred: Students are free to move around the class, choose their own work, and determine the pace of their studies. This can make for a dynamic learning environment. Kids often choose work that’s engaging and stimulating, which can spark a lifelong love of learning.

Uninterrupted work time: Many Montessori schools give kids extended work periods, especially at the elementary level. Students often receive at least one 3-hour uninterrupted block to focus on chosen tasks. These work periods are believed to improve concentration, self-discipline, and work habits.

Concrete learning: Like Waldorf and Reggio Emilia, Montessori emphasizes hands-on, concrete learning. At the primary and elementary levels, students work with manipulatives such as blocks, rods, and spindle boxes. This sensory-rich approach often accelerates learning, especially for younger children.

No external rewards: At the primary and elementary levels, students aren’t graded with traditional tests or assignments. Instead, progress is assessed through observation and developmental rubrics. Praise, when given, focuses on effort rather than outcome.

Montessori teaching approach

Teachers in Markham Montessori schools rarely deliver long lectures. Instead, they guide and mentor students individually or in small groups, tailoring lessons to meet each child’s learning needs. Their role is to connect students with meaningful work rather than to directly impart knowledge.

Classes are mixed-age, with group work playing a central role. Students collaborate on projects, and older children often mentor younger classmates—reinforcing their own learning while building leadership skills. This can be especially engaging for gifted kids or those with advanced learning abilities.

Markham Montessori Schools

There are several Markham Montessori schools to choose from. While each may vary slightly in approach, they all share a commitment to Maria Montessori’s educational philosophy. These schools promote independent learning, group collaboration, student-led teaching, and hands-on experiences.

In a Montessori school, teachers act as guides and mentors rather than traditional instructors. This approach nurtures independence, confidence, and self-assurance. By following their interests and passions, students often develop a lasting love of learning that continues beyond their school years.