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On this page, we cover private Montessori schools in Ontario. This includes schools in Toronto, Ottawa, Mississauga, Brantford, and Unionville.
For a more complete guide to Montessori education, including a detailed discussion of philosophy and classroom practices, start with our introductory guide.
There are lots of Montessori schools in Ontario, including in Toronto, Ottawa, and Mississauga. These schools vary in terms of their philosophy, program offerings, and special needs support. The schools listed below reflect this diversity. They can be filtered for a wide range of features.
| School Name | Approach | Cost | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Tall Pines School (est. 1987)
Brampton, Ontario Tall Pines School in Brampton provides enhanced Montessori and traditional classes from Infant to Grade Eight, is the longest accredited CCMA Montessori school in Canada, and is a leader in 21st Century education. View profile |
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$14,970 to $19,970
View profile |
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Royal Cachet Montessori School (est. 2006)
Markham, Ontario Royal Cachet has authentic Montessori programs from infants to grade 3 in our healthy & safe environments. We focus on the Language & Math areas of the Montessori Curriculum & encourage our students to grow and succeed. View profile |
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$6,800 to $12,900
View profile |
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Hillfield Strathallan College (est. 1901)
Hamilton, Ontario Established in 1901, Hillfield Strathallan College is one of Canada’s leading co-educational independent schools, offering academic programs from Montessori Toddler and Pre-K to Grade 12, in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. View profile |
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$8,213 to $50,230
View profile |
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Clanmore Montessori School (est. 1997)
Oakville, Ontario Clanmore is one of the few schools offering authentic Montessori programming from Toddler - Middle School. Our culture is warm and inviting and our philosophy empowers us to support each child as a unique individual. View profile |
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$8,925 to $18,900
View profile |
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Sunrise Montessori School (est. 1988)
Markham, Ontario Our curriculum are designed to build essential skills and concepts that help with the cognitive, social, creative, emotional, and physical development of your child with the aim to be a successful learner for life! View profile |
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$10,500 to $16,500
View profile |
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TMS (est. 1961)
Richmond Hill, Ontario TMS is a leading, accredited independent school that offers a unique design of Montessori and International Baccalaureate programmes. Our students thrive in academics while building a foundation of Significance. View profile |
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$17,485 to $31,350
View profile |
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Westside Montessori School (est. 2008)
Toronto, Ontario An authentic, CCMA accredited Montessori School located in downtown Toronto, offering programs for Toddlers, Casa and Elementary children. View profile |
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$19,700 to $21,900
View profile |
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Century Private School (est. 1994)
Richmond Hill, Ontario Century Private School in Richmond Hill runs from preschool to grade twelve, with small class ratio to ensure best learning for our students. View profile |
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$16,550 to $27,000
View profile |
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Rowntree Montessori Schools (RMS) (est. 1969)
Brampton, Ontario RMS is an award-winning progressive private school. Our structured enriched programme cultivates character, leadership, respect and cultural diversity while developing each child’s 21st century skills and a STEM mindset. View profile |
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$8,100 to $15,000
View profile |
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OMS Montessori (est. 1966)
Ottawa, Ontario OMS Montessori is a non for profit, independent school offering separate French and English programs within a world class Montessori environment. View profile |
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$12,864 to $21,384
View profile |
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The Element High School (est. 2003)
Ottawa, Ontario The Element nurtures focused, engaged and internally motivated students who strive to do their best. The Element High School provides conditions that will put youth ‘in their element,’ in school and beyond. View profile |
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$17,208 to $18,840
View profile |
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Rotherglen School - Mississauga (est. 1979)
Mississauga, Ontario Rotherglen School - MISSISSAUGA is a montessori school that offers programs from pre-school to grade eight. The average class size is 18 students. View profile |
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$7,800 to $17,900
View profile |
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St. Peter's ACHS College School (est. 1990)
Harrow, Ontario St. Peter's ACHS College School in Amherstburg, Ont. is a day/residency school for boys grades 1-8 who love Sports and the Outdoors. Tuition starts at $8,900. and is a member of OFIS. We put "FUN" back into learning. View profile |
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$8,500 to $29,000
View profile |
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Bannockburn (est. 1993)
Toronto, Ontario Bannockburn School leads in Montessori education by offering an exceptional, enriched Montessori curriculum in a nurturing environment carefully prepared to meet the needs of children in the formative years of childhood. View profile |
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$15,900 to $25,600
View profile |
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Cornerstone Montessori Prep School (est. 1990)
Toronto, Ontario Cornerstone students love to shape the future. They INSPIRE learning, DISCOVER their potential, EMPOWER themselves to be innovative citizens. Our boundless learning strategies open doors for successful learning. View profile |
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$13,750 to $24,000
View profile |
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Esprit Academy (est. 2020)
Toronto, Ontario Esprit Academy is a community and environment that cultivates independence and lifelong learning through individualized experiences that integrates and connects knowledge and skills. View profile |
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$24,500
View profile |
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J. Addison School (est. 2002)
Markham, Ontario Since 2002, J. Addison has provided a stimulating education for students. Located at the corner of Woodbine and Valleywood Drive in Markham, ON, Canada, you will find our state-of-the-art 58,000 sq. ft. facility. View profile |
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$15,000 to $42,450
View profile |
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Country Garden Montessori Academy (est. 1995)
Newmarket, Ontario Situated on seven acres of rolling parkland and gardens, Country Garden Montessori Academy in Newmarket is a co-ed private day school for students in grades PS-12. The school provides a family atmosphere and is committed the intellectual growth and emotional well-being of students. View profile |
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$7,600 to $25,900
View profile |
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Dearcroft Montessori School (est. 1968)
Oakville, Ontario Offering Montessori programs from Toddler to Grade 8, Dearcroft is accredited by CCMA and staffed by dedicated teachers. View profile |
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$9,600 to $23,000
View profile |
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Montessori House of Children (est. 1974)
Brantford, Ontario Located in Brantford, Ontario, Montessori House of Children (MHC) provides excellent programs for grades Nursery to 3 and helps young children reach their learning potential with both independent and self-directed learning. MHC also offers support for students with learning differences. View profile |
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$10,000 to $12,000
View profile |
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Central Montessori School – Maplehurst Campus (est. 1995)
North York, Ontario CMS' aim is to prepare all children to reach their full potential (academically, artistically, & physically) and to play a responsible role in protecting the global environment and fostering peace and harmony. View profile |
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$8,750 to $17,950
View profile |
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Trinity Montessori School (est. 1999)
Markham, Ontario Trinity Montessori School offers programs from toddler to grade six in Markham, Ontario. Its average class size is nine students. View profile |
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$11,000 to $13,000
View profile |
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Toronto, Ontario Liberty Prep offers programs from Toddler - Gr. 6 in downtown Toronto. Our environment combines a beautifully renovated building with well-trained and passionate teachers. Reach out to discover what we do differently. View profile |
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$13,000 to $17,500
View profile |
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The Montessori Country School (est. 1988)
Nobleton, Ontario For 38 years, Montessori Country School has provided a top rated CCMA accredited curriculum for students 15 months through grade 6 on two sprawling campuses, and an integrated virtual classroom for elementary students. View profile |
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$9,000 to $18,000
View profile |
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ABC Montessori (est. 1995)
Mississauga, Ontario ABC Montessori is one of Mississauga's premier private schools. We offers both Montessori and traditional school programs from preschool to Grade 5 with an emphasis on developing literacy, numeracy, sciences, and arts. View profile |
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$6,600 to $10,500
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Montessori Learning Centre of Pickering (est. 1984)
Pickering, Ontario Montessori Learning Centre of Pickering is a non denominational, inclusive school that offers programs from Pre-school to Grade eight. We acknowledge and celebrate religious and cultural events as part of our cultural program. View profile |
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$9,000 to $13,000
View profile |
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Rotherglen School - Oakville (est. 1979)
Oakville, Ontario Rotherglen School - OAKVILLE offers programs for students age 4 to grade eight. The average class size is 18 students. View profile |
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$14,700 to $24,000
View profile |
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Northstar Montessori Private School (est. 1996)
Mississauga, Ontario Northstar Montessori offers an authentic Montessori curriculum for Toddler age to Grade 8. Our goal is to develop strong character and contributing citizens who understand that their involvement makes a difference. View profile |
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$9,800 to $15,400
View profile |
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Alive Montessori & Private School (est. 2014)
Toronto, Ontario NOW WITH LICENSED DAYCARE! Bring your child for a free trial to let him or her experience the difference. Don't be surprised if he or she doesn't want to go home at the end of the day! View profile |
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$10,000 to $16,500
View profile |
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La Villa Montessori School (est. 2012)
Mississauga, Ontario La Villa Montessori is an AMI recognized School that adheres to Dr. Montessori's principles. We provide a nurturing environment that fulfills the child's emotional, social, physical and intellectual needs. View profile |
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$9,000 to $16,350
View profile |
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Avalon Children's Montessori School (est. 2000)
Toronto, Ontario Our objective is to guide children with respect and understanding, developing in them a love of learning. Our aim is to create a nurturing environment full of intellectual, social and moral learning and development. View profile |
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$7,115 to $22,275
View profile |
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Maria Montessori School (est. 1975)
Toronto, Ontario Maria Montessori School is one of the longest established AMI accredited Montessori school's in Canada. We offer accredited programs for children 18 months to 12 years and hire only AMI certified teaching staff. View profile |
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$7,000 to $16,000
View profile |
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Richmond Hill Montessori Private School (est. 1986)
Richmond Hill, Ontario Richmond Hill Montessori Private School offers programs from pre-school to grade eight. Its average class size is 20 students. View profile |
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$23,000 to $25,000
View profile |
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Meadow Green Academy (est. 1995)
Mississauga, Ontario Meadow Green Academy offers programs from pre-school to grade eight in Mississauga. Its average class size is 12 students. View profile |
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$9,050 to $15,990
View profile |
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Aurora Montessori School (est. 1989)
Aurora, Ontario Aurora Montessori offers an extensive, enriched program for day students to Grade 8 including an Outdoor Ed. Program, an option of an OSSD credit in Grade 9 Academic Math and a bridge to elite private high schools. View profile |
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$10,900 to $18,350
View profile |
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Kanata Montessori (est. 1974)
Kanata, Ontario For more than 40 years Kanata Montessori has been graduating students with self-confidence, critical thinking skills, respect, high academic achievement and an international perspective. View profile |
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$17,500
View profile |
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Toronto French Montessori (est. 2000)
Stouffville, Ontario Toronto French Montessori offers French and English programs from pre-school to grade 8 in York Region. Its average class size is 15 students. View profile |
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$7,782 to $15,396
View profile |
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Central Montessori Schools (est. 1995)
Toronto, Ontario CMS' aim is to prepare all children to reach their full potential (academically, artistically, & physically) and to play a responsible role in protecting the global environment and fostering peace and harmony. View profile |
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not provided
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Kaban Montessori School (est. 2002)
Mississauga, Ontario Kaban Montessori School in west Mississauga/Erin Mills is a CCMA accredited school for children aged 6 months to 12 years. Come for a tour, you'll love it! View profile |
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$15,250 to $15,750
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Hatch House Montessori School (est. 2005)
Whitby, Ontario The Hatch House Montessori School is a very child centered school where each student is respected for his/her uniqueness and is taught accordingly. Ask about our unique, fully bilingual elementary program. View profile |
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$9,950 to $14,000
View profile |
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Bishop Hamilton Montessori School (est. 1983)
Ottawa, Ontario Bishop Hamilton Montessori School, a not-for-profit independent school in Ottawa, provides an authentic Christian Montessori approach for children 3 months to 14 years. View profile |
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$12,705 to $16,765
View profile |
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Guiding Light Academy (est. 2007)
Mississauga, Ontario Guiding Light Academy is a Catholic private elementary school in Streetsville, Mississauga. We offer an enriched curriculum for JK, SK and Grades 1 to 8. We are located just minutes away from the Streetsville Go Station. View profile |
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$10,000
View profile |
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Shepherd Montessori Private Catholic School (est. 2000)
Mississauga, Ontario Shepherd Montessori Private Catholic School in Mississauga offers Casa Montessori programs for children a ged 2.5 to 6. Before- and after-school care and summer camps also available. View profile |
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$7,070 to $11,960
View profile |
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Durham Elementary, Durham Academy and G.B.M.S. (est. 1984)
Oshawa, Ontario At G.B.MS, D.E.P.S and Durham Academy Secondary school focus is on each individual student and helping them meet their unique potential and goals. We believe in excellent customer service and families have a voice. Throughout the year we enhance our programs through program enhancement and enrichment. We also offer March Break and Summer Camps for working parents. View profile |
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$9,700 to $11,500
View profile |
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The Clover School (est. 1996)
Toronto, Ontario Our innovative curriculum combines Montessori essentials with heart-centred learning practices designed to nurture the mind, heart, health, and soul of each child. View profile |
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$18,810 to $22,100
View profile |
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Braemar House School (est. 1996)
Brantford, Ontario Braemar House School is a not-for-profit elementary school that proves each day that children thrive in a nurturing environment that offers personalized attention. View profile |
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$13,357
View profile |
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Unionville Montessori Private Schools (est. 1987)
Unionville, Ontario UMS offers year advanced programs from pre-school to grade eight. Our hallmark is a clear focus on high expectations blending academic success with the character development of the individual child. View profile |
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$8,000 to $15,250
View profile |
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Montessori Jewish Day School (est. 2000)
Toronto, Ontario MJDS inspires a lifetime love for learning in a nurturing environment that fosters respect for oneself, the community and the world, guided by the shared values of Judaism and Montessori education. View profile |
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$8,875 to $18,400
View profile |
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Wheatley School (est. 1986)
St. Catharines, Ontario We provide students with opportunities to explore real-world concepts and issues, broadening their sense of responsibility, develop their critical thinking skills, and empower them to take action in a global community. View profile |
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$6,550 to $14,050
View profile |
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Parkdale Montessori School (est. 2007)
Ottawa, Ontario The School offers authentic Montessori education, individualized learning, accommodations to meet each child’s needs, hands-on learning, enriched curriculum, and outdoor exploration. View profile |
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$14,700 to $17,550
View profile |
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Trillium School (est. 1991)
Markham, Ontario Trillium School is a private school that offers programs from pre-school to grade twelve in Markham with Montessori-based kindergarten. View profile |
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$7,600 to $41,500
View profile |
Some schools aren't Montessori schools, but use a Montessori approach for their preschool or daycare program. This approach gives young learners plenty of freedom to choose tasks and activities that interest them, which promotes their independence and confidence. It also strongly emphasizes concrete learning, where children work with lots of hands-on materials, and do practical life activities. Children usually work independently or in small groups in these programs.
| School Name | Approach | Cost | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Bond Academy (est. 1978)
Toronto, Ontario Bond Academy is a private, co-educational, non-denominational independent school with students from Montessori Casa to Grade 12. View profile |
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$13,000 to $16,000
View profile |
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Yip’s Music & Montessori School (est. 1990)
Unionville, Ontario Founded in 1990, Yip's Montessori Program cater to children from 1.5 to 6 years old. Yip's four campuses are located in Markham, Unionville and Thornhill. View profile |
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$7,750 to $12,900
View profile |
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Somerset Academy (est. 1990)
Markham, Ontario Established in 1974, Somerset Academy is an independent, not-for-profit private school that provides education to students in Grades 1 to 8. Somerset Academy has an average class size of 10 to 18 students. View profile |
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$12,550 to $14,300
View profile |
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Ashwood Glen (est. 2019)
Burlington, Ontario Ashwood Glen offers a Montessori program for children aged 18months - 6 yrs. The Grades 1 - 8 Learning Program applies the IB framework to extend the learning outcomes of the Ontario curriculum. View profile |
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$14,000 to $20,000
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Peel Montessori Private School (est. 1992)
Mississauga, Ontario Peel Montessori School and Carrington College students are encouraged to be engaged, inquisitive learners who think for themselves, display strengthen of character, and learn to succeed on their own merits. View profile |
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$8,500 to $18,500
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Alder Ridge Academy (est. 2020)
Brampton, Ontario Alder Ridge offers 21st century education. Our innovative learning initiatives are founded in the Montessori Philosophy. We offer a student led, self paced learning environment that holistically supports all areas. View profile |
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$9,950 to $13,500
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SimplySmart Child Care & Montessori (est. 2012)
Mississauga, Ontario We provide infant, toddler, preschool and CASA programs for your child. Our CASA program is based on the curriculum developed by Maria Montessori. We are located in Oakville, Mississauga, Brampton, Vaughan and Toronto. View profile |
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$570 to $720 /2 Weeks
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Town Centre Private Schools (est. 1986)
Markham, Ontario Located in Markham, Ontario, Town Centre Private Schools is an International Baccalaureate® World School and offers a Montessori Pre-School program as well as an IB Elementary School and IB High School. View profile |
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$7,400 to $17,250
View profile |
Our Montessori choosing guide has specific advice for choosing Montessori schools. For advice on how to choose and assess private schools in general, check out our choosing a school guide and expert advice guide. You can also read our guides to questions to ask private schools and questions students get asked at school interviews.
Private school expos are a great starting point for finding a school. In Ontario, we have private school expos in Toronto, Ottawa, and Oakvile. These expos allow you to speak with lots of private schools, including some Montessori schools—all in one place. Find a Montessori school near you.
Another useful resource in your school search is the Our Kids parent discussion forum. The forum is an ideal place to discuss options and debate topics related to Montessori education. Our community of parents, educational experts, school officials, and alumni can help answer your questions and lay out your options.
Open houses are another great way to learn more about schools. For general advice on open house visits, check out our guide on school visits. For specific questions to ask Montessori schools, see our Montessori questions guide.
| School name | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
The Clover School | April 21, 2021 9:30 am | |
The Clover School | May 26, 2021 7:00 pm |
The cost of Montessori schools in Ontario tends to be lower than the cost of other private schools in Ontario. In fact, Montessori schools are usually on the lower side of private school tuition in general. Private school tuition can range from $5,000 to over $30,000 per year. There are no public Montessori schools in Ontario, though some public schools use certain Montessori principles.
Many schools offer needs-based financial aid, such as bursaries or tuition relief. Other schools, though not as many, offer scholarships, which are given based on merit. You can learn more about need- and merit-based financial aid in our dedicated guide. You can learn more about preschool costs, in our dedicated guide.
Below, you’ll find the range of costs for private Montessori schools in Ontario:
| Tuition (day school) | Students receiving financial aid | Grade eligibility for financial aid | Avg. aid package size (annual) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Hillfield Strathallan College | $16,428 to $28,775 | 10% | JK - 12 | $4,500 |
TMS | $25,700 to $31,350 | K - 12 | ||
Yip’s Music & Montessori School | $10,850 to $11,200 | |||
Somerset Academy | $13,200 | 5% | 1 - 8 | |
OMS Montessori | $14,664 to $21,384 | 10% | Nursery/Toddler - 6 | $2,500 |
The Element High School | $17,448 | |||
St. Peter's ACHS College School | $11,400 | 35% | 1 - 8 | $6,000 |
Bannockburn | $25,600 | |||
Alive Montessori & Private School | $15,500 to $16,500 | 10% | JK - 6 | $850 |
Avalon Children's Montessori School | $13,100 to $20,400 | 5% | 1 - 8 | $10,000 |
Aurora Montessori School | 7% | Preschool - 8 | $1,000 | |
Bishop Hamilton Montessori School | $12,705 to $16,765 | Nursery/Toddler - 8 | ||
Durham Elementary, Durham Academy and G.B.M.S. | $9,700 to $11,500 | 3% | 1 - 12 | |
Montessori Jewish Day School | $15,250 to $18,400 | 25% | Preschool - 8 | $5,000 |
Primary curriculum | Secondary curriculum | Curriculum pace | Academic culture | Average class size | Language immersion | Special needs support | Tech integration |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bond Academy | Liberal Arts | Standard-enriched | Rigorous | 10 to 15 | Full-time Dedicated Class | Medium integration | ||
Tall Pines School | Montessori | Student-paced | Supportive | 15 to 18 | No support | Light integration | ||
Royal Cachet Montessori School | Montessori | Accelerated | Supportive | 3 to 8 | No support | |||
Hillfield Strathallan College | Traditional | Montessori | Standard-enriched | Rigorous | 16 to 20 | No support | Heavy integration | |
Clanmore Montessori School | Montessori | Student-paced | Supportive | No support | Light integration | |||
Sunrise Montessori School | Montessori | Accelerated | Supportive | 10 to 24 | Indirect Support | Medium integration | ||
TMS | Montessori | International Baccalaureate | Student-paced | Rigorous | No support | |||
Westside Montessori School | Montessori | Student-paced | Supportive | 10 to 24 | No support | |||
Yip’s Music & Montessori School | Student-paced | Supportive | 5 to 13 | No support | ||||
Somerset Academy | Traditional | Standard-enriched | Supportive | 13 to 18 | No support | |||
Ashwood Glen | Progressive | International Baccalaureate | Standard-enriched | Supportive | 10 to 16 | Indirect Support | Medium integration | |
Century Private School | Montessori | International Baccalaureate | Student-paced | Rigorous | 10 to 20 | No support | Light integration | |
Peel Montessori Private School | Progressive | International Baccalaureate | Student-paced | Supportive | No support | |||
Rowntree Montessori Schools (RMS) | Progressive | Montessori | Standard-enriched | Rigorous | 8 to 18 | No support | Heavy integration | |
Alder Ridge Academy | Standard-enriched | Rigorous | 10 to 16 | Indirect Support | ||||
OMS Montessori | Montessori | Student-paced | Supportive | 16 to 25 | Withdrawal Assistance | Light integration | ||
The Element High School | Progressive | Montessori | Student-paced | Supportive | Indirect Support | Heavy integration | ||
Rotherglen School - Mississauga | Progressive | Montessori | Standard-enriched | Supportive | 18 | No support | Light integration | |
St. Peter's ACHS College School | Traditional | Montessori | Student-paced | Rigorous | Resource Assistance | Medium integration | ||
Bannockburn | Montessori | Accelerated | Supportive | 15 to 20 | Resource Assistance | Light integration | ||
Cornerstone Montessori Prep School | Liberal Arts | Montessori | Accelerated | Rigorous | 10 to 15 | No support | ||
Esprit Academy | Progressive | Montessori | Student-paced | 3 to 12 | Special needs school | Heavy integration | ||
J. Addison School | Traditional | Montessori | Standard-enriched | Supportive | 8 to 15 | No support | Light integration | |
Country Garden Montessori Academy | Montessori | Standard-enriched | Supportive | 10 to 15 | No support | |||
Dearcroft Montessori School | Montessori | Student-paced | Supportive | 10 to 20 | No support | Light integration | ||
Montessori House of Children | Montessori | Standard-enriched | 8 | No support | ||||
Central Montessori School – Maplehurst Campus | Montessori | Accelerated | Supportive | No support | ||||
Trinity Montessori School | Traditional | Montessori | Accelerated | Rigorous | No support | Light integration | ||
Liberty Prep School | Montessori | Student-paced | Rigorous | 15 to 26 | No support | |||
The Montessori Country School | Montessori | Student-paced | Supportive | No support | Light integration | |||
ABC Montessori | Traditional | Montessori | Standard-enriched | Rigorous | 10 to 14 | No support | Light integration | |
Montessori Learning Centre of Pickering | Montessori | Student-paced | Supportive | No support | ||||
Rotherglen School - Oakville | Progressive | Montessori | Standard-enriched | Supportive | 18 | No support | ||
Northstar Montessori Private School | Montessori | Student-paced | Supportive | No support | Heavy integration | |||
Alive Montessori & Private School | Montessori | Waldorf | Accelerated | Rigorous | 8 to 16 | No support | Light integration | |
La Villa Montessori School | Montessori | Student-paced | Supportive | Resource Assistance | ||||
SimplySmart Child Care & Montessori | Standard-enriched | Supportive | Resource Assistance | |||||
Avalon Children's Montessori School | Montessori | Student-paced | Supportive | No support | Medium integration | |||
Maria Montessori School | Montessori | Student-paced | Supportive | No support | ||||
Richmond Hill Montessori Private School | Traditional | Montessori | Accelerated | Rigorous | 16 to 20 | No support | Medium integration | |
Meadow Green Academy | Traditional | Montessori | Accelerated | Rigorous | 12 | Resource Assistance | ||
Aurora Montessori School | Montessori | Student-paced | Supportive | 15 to 24 | Partial Integration | Medium integration | ||
Kanata Montessori | Montessori | Montessori | Standard-enriched | Rigorous | 12 to 15 | Resource Assistance | ||
Toronto French Montessori | Montessori | Accelerated | Rigorous | No support | Medium integration | |||
Central Montessori Schools | Montessori | Standard-enriched | Supportive | No support | ||||
Kaban Montessori School | Montessori | Student-paced | Supportive | 15 to 24 | No support | |||
Hatch House Montessori School | Montessori | Student-paced | Supportive | No support | Light integration | |||
Bishop Hamilton Montessori School | Montessori | Student-paced | Supportive | Withdrawal Assistance | Light integration | |||
Guiding Light Academy | Traditional | Montessori | Accelerated | Rigorous | 5 to 16 | No support | Heavy integration | |
Shepherd Montessori Private Catholic School | Montessori | Standard-enriched | 10 to 15 | No support | ||||
Durham Elementary, Durham Academy and G.B.M.S. | Progressive | Montessori | Standard-enriched | Rigorous | 8 to 15 | Indirect Support | Medium integration | |
Town Centre Private Schools | Traditional | International Baccalaureate | Standard-enriched | Supportive | 15 to 24 | No support | ||
The Clover School | Montessori | Student-paced | Supportive | Withdrawal Assistance | ||||
Braemar House School | Traditional | Montessori | Standard-enriched | Supportive | No support | Heavy integration | ||
Unionville Montessori Private Schools | Traditional | Montessori | Accelerated | Rigorous | 18 to 24 | Withdrawal Assistance | Heavy integration | |
Montessori Jewish Day School | Montessori | Student-paced | Supportive | 8 to 24 | Indirect Support | Light integration | ||
Wheatley School | Montessori | International Baccalaureate | Student-paced | Supportive | 15 to 18 | Indirect Support | ||
Parkdale Montessori School | Montessori | Student-paced | 15 to 24 | Indirect Support | ||||
Trillium School | Traditional | Montessori | Accelerated | Rigorous | No support | Medium integration |
Legend:
Bond Academy | ||||||||||||||||||||
Tall Pines School | ||||||||||||||||||||
Royal Cachet Montessori School | ||||||||||||||||||||
Hillfield Strathallan College | ||||||||||||||||||||
Clanmore Montessori School | ||||||||||||||||||||
Sunrise Montessori School | ||||||||||||||||||||
TMS | ||||||||||||||||||||
Westside Montessori School | ||||||||||||||||||||
Yip’s Music & Montessori School | ||||||||||||||||||||
Somerset Academy | ||||||||||||||||||||
Ashwood Glen | ||||||||||||||||||||
Century Private School | ||||||||||||||||||||
Peel Montessori Private School | ||||||||||||||||||||
Rowntree Montessori Schools (RMS) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Alder Ridge Academy | ||||||||||||||||||||
OMS Montessori | ||||||||||||||||||||
The Element High School | ||||||||||||||||||||
Rotherglen School - Mississauga | ||||||||||||||||||||
St. Peter's ACHS College School | ||||||||||||||||||||
Bannockburn | ||||||||||||||||||||
Cornerstone Montessori Prep School | ||||||||||||||||||||
Esprit Academy | ||||||||||||||||||||
J. Addison School | ||||||||||||||||||||
Country Garden Montessori Academy | ||||||||||||||||||||
Dearcroft Montessori School | ||||||||||||||||||||
Montessori House of Children | ||||||||||||||||||||
Central Montessori School – Maplehurst Campus | ||||||||||||||||||||
Trinity Montessori School | ||||||||||||||||||||
Liberty Prep School | ||||||||||||||||||||
The Montessori Country School | ||||||||||||||||||||
ABC Montessori | ||||||||||||||||||||
Montessori Learning Centre of Pickering | ||||||||||||||||||||
Rotherglen School - Oakville | ||||||||||||||||||||
Northstar Montessori Private School | ||||||||||||||||||||
Alive Montessori & Private School | ||||||||||||||||||||
La Villa Montessori School | ||||||||||||||||||||
SimplySmart Child Care & Montessori | ||||||||||||||||||||
Avalon Children's Montessori School | ||||||||||||||||||||
Maria Montessori School | ||||||||||||||||||||
Richmond Hill Montessori Private School | ||||||||||||||||||||
Meadow Green Academy | ||||||||||||||||||||
Aurora Montessori School | ||||||||||||||||||||
Kanata Montessori | ||||||||||||||||||||
Toronto French Montessori | ||||||||||||||||||||
Central Montessori Schools | ||||||||||||||||||||
Kaban Montessori School | ||||||||||||||||||||
Hatch House Montessori School | ||||||||||||||||||||
Bishop Hamilton Montessori School | ||||||||||||||||||||
Guiding Light Academy | ||||||||||||||||||||
Shepherd Montessori Private Catholic School | ||||||||||||||||||||
Durham Elementary, Durham Academy and G.B.M.S. | ||||||||||||||||||||
Town Centre Private Schools | ||||||||||||||||||||
The Clover School | ||||||||||||||||||||
Braemar House School | ||||||||||||||||||||
Unionville Montessori Private Schools | ||||||||||||||||||||
Montessori Jewish Day School | ||||||||||||||||||||
Wheatley School | ||||||||||||||||||||
Parkdale Montessori School | ||||||||||||||||||||
Trillium School |
The Montessori philosophy and approach, based on the research and insights of Maria Montessori, is unique. And Montessori schools (including preschools), in Ontario and other provinces, have several progressive classroom practices. Some of the main ones are discussed below.
For more comprehensive coverage of the Montessori method, see our main Montessori school guide.
Self-directed work: Montessori students do lots of independent work. While the learning environment provides some structure, students often choose their own tasks and learning materials. With some guidance from the teacher, they also determine the pace of their studies. This allows them to do work they find challenging and stimulating, and that they’re likely to complete. It can also lead to a love of learning, throughout the school years and beyond.
Concrete learning: The main focus is on concrete learning, rather than abstract learning. Especially at the preschool and elementary level, kids work with lots of different concrete materials to learn important practical life skills.
Concrete learning engages many of the senses. And research has shown that it has several benefits. For instance, it leads to faster and more efficient learning, and it can also improve a child's focus and engagement.
Minimal tests and grades: Similar to Waldorf and Reggio Emilia schools, Montessori schools almost never test students or give them assignments. Moreover, student work is rarely graded, except in high school (and sometimes middle school).
Instead, student progress is informally assessed through observation and developmental rubrics. The belief is that kids should be intrinsically motivated—by doing meaningful work they enjoy and find fulfilling—rather than externally motivated (through grades, report cards, and the like).
Individualized curriculum: Montessori schools focus heavily on academics, even sometimes at the preschool level (3-6). Kids must master the basics in math, science, the language arts, and other subjects. They can then move on to more advanced work.
The curricular focus and pace, though, will differ between children. Each child will move at a different pace and study subjects in different ways, depending on their specific learning needs and interests. Each child will also have their own individualized learning plan, one that’s arrived at by both the child and the teacher. This is a hallmark of the Montessori method.
In Montessori schools in Ontario, subjects are almost never taught in isolation. Typically, several subjects are taught together, as part of what's called an integrated curriculum.
For instance, biology or chemistry aren’t taught as single subjects, except possibly in high school (and maybe middle school). Rather, they’ll be taught as part of an integrated unit.
To this end, a teacher might deliver what Montessori educators refer to as a great lesson. For instance, in some schools, teachers give a great lesson on the beginning of life, where students learn about biology, chemistry, history, religion, and other subjects.
An integrated curriculum can be very rewarding for Montessori students. It encourages them to make connections between ideas and concepts from a variety of disciplines. It also can lead to positive learning outcomes, such as a broadening of knowledge and a wider range of interests.
Unlike mainstream schools, though, Montessori schools don’t deliver this curriculum through direct instruction. Teachers rarely, if ever, give long lectures or lessons. When lessons are given, they tend to be shorter and more interactive and engaging than lectures given in mainstream schools.
Instead of lecturing, teachers tend to work with individuals or small groups of students. Their main role is to be a facilitator: they provide the necessary support and guidance for students to complete their work. They also help connect students with meaningful work.
Sometimes, though, teachers will just sit back and observe kids work. Often, this will be group work, where small groups of kids come together (of their own accord) to work on different tasks and projects.
The belief is that classmates often do a better job of teaching than the main teacher. In particular, older kids can excel at teaching and mentoring their younger peers, and modelling appropriate behaviour to them. The teacher, in these situations, will intervene or provide guidance only when absolutely necessary.
To learn about how Montessori education evolves through the years, read our Montessori curriculum guide. To learn how it might be suitable for kids with special needs such as gifted children, read our Montessori and special needs guide.
There are plenty of Montessori schools, preschools, and daycares in Ontario. This includes schools in Toronto, Ottawa, Brampton, Mississauga, London, Kingston, St. Catharines, Oakville, Milton, Pickering, Scarborough, Brantford, Unionville, Stouffville, Aurora, and Vaughan. Parents will thus have a lot of options when selecting a school.
Some schools are more traditional, and follow the Montessori philosophy to the letter. Other schools are more supplemented, and combine the Montessori philosophy with more modern curricular approaches and materials. Remember, each Montessori school has a unique approach. In choosing a school or preschool, it’s best to look for one that’s the right fit for your child in terms of philosophy, culture, values, and the like.
Ontario has plenty of great public and private schools. It's also home to some first-rate post-secondary institutions. These include the University of Toronto, Queen’s University (in Kingston), Western University (in London), McMaster University (in Hamilton), and the University of Waterloo (in Kitchener-Waterloo).
