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Montessori schools in Quebec

Find the top Montessori schools and programs in Quebec.

Welcome to the OUR KIDS guide to Montessori schools in Quebec—your starting point for exploring child-centred education in the province. Montessori programs in Quebec emphasize independence, curiosity, and hands-on learning, helping children build confidence while progressing at their own pace.

On this page, we feature private schools in Quebec that offer Montessori programs. This includes schools in Montreal, Laval, Sherbrooke, Kirkland, and Longueuil.

For more than 30 years, OUR KIDS has connected families with trusted insights into private and independent education. On OurKids.net, you’ll find verified school profiles, parent reviews, comparison tools, and expert resources to support your decision. For a more complete guide to Montessori education, including a discussion of preschool and elementary school options, start with our guide to Montessori schools.

2. Choosing a Montessori school in Quebec

For general advice on how to choose and evaluate private schools, check out our choosing a school guide, as well as our expert advice guide. For advice on selecting Montessori schools (ecole Montessori), see our Montessori choosing 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 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. What is the tuition at Montessori schools in Quebec?

The cost of Montessori schools in Quebec tends to be lower than the cost of other private schools in the province. 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 for day students. There are no public Montessori schools in Quebec, although some public schools incorporate certain Montessori principles and materials.

Many Montessori schools offer needs-based financial aid, such as bursaries or tuition relief. Some schools, though fewer in number, offer scholarships awarded based on merit—for instance, in academics or athletics. You can learn more about need- and merit-based financial aid in our dedicated guide. To learn more about preschool costs and financial aid, read our dedicated guide.

Below, you’ll find the range of costs for Montessori private schools in Quebec:

Academics

Special needs support

Montessori schools (école Montessori) in Quebec, including Montreal, have unique classroom practices. Some of the main ones are the following (for more comprehensive coverage, see our main Montessori school guide):

Self-directed work: Children do lots of independent work. While the learning environment provides some structure, they often choose their own tasks and learning materials. With some guidance from the teacher, they also determine the pace of their studies. This allows children to do work they find stimulating and are likely to complete, fostering a long-lasting love of learning.

Concrete learning: The main focus is on concrete learning rather than abstract learning. Especially at the primary and elementary level, children work with various concrete materials to learn important skills and concepts. This approach engages multiple senses and has been shown to benefit many children.

No tests or grades: Like Waldorf and Reggio Emilia schools, Montessori schools rarely test students or assign grades, except in high school (and sometimes middle school). Student progress is assessed informally through observation and developmental rubrics, encouraging intrinsic motivation rather than external rewards like grades.

Individualized curriculum: Montessori schools emphasize academics even at the preschool level (0-6). Children must master the basics in math, science, language arts, and other subjects before progressing to advanced work. Each child moves at a different pace and follows a learning plan tailored to their specific needs and interests, developed collaboratively with the teacher.

In Quebec Montessori schools, subjects are usually taught in an integrated curriculum rather than in isolation. For example, biology or chemistry may be taught as part of broader units, combining multiple disciplines such as history, religion, and science. Teachers typically deliver “great lessons” that weave together these subjects.

This integrated approach encourages students to make connections between concepts and can broaden knowledge and interests. Unlike traditional schools, Montessori teachers rarely lecture. Lessons are shorter, interactive, and engaging. Teachers mainly act as facilitators, supporting individuals or small groups, and may observe students working independently or in peer-led groups. Older students often mentor younger ones, with the teacher intervening only when necessary.

To learn how the Montessori method evolves through different levels, see our curriculum guide. To learn how effective this method can be, see our benefits guide.

Montessori schools in Quebec follow the philosophy of Maria Montessori, who believed children learn best when encouraged to grow individually in a social environment. With students as the masters of their own learning, Montessori schools are ideal for parents who support this educational philosophy.

The Montessori philosophy emphasizes that children direct their own learning. Every child is treated as a unique individual, progressing at their own pace. Montessori advocates say students go from asking “help me to help myself” to “help me to do it myself” and eventually “help me to think for myself.”

Tuition varies widely among Quebec Montessori schools. Before choosing a school, review payment options and financial assistance opportunities, such as financial aid, bursaries, scholarships, and tax breaks. Early planning can help you find the best financial fit. For additional guidance, see 18 tips to help cover private school costs.

When choosing a Montessori school in Quebec, consider several factors to ensure the best fit for your child:

• Your child’s personality, learning style, and academic ability
• Your family’s values, goals, and priorities
• The school’s philosophy and vision, and how it is implemented daily
• The school’s reputation and accreditation

For more guidance, review our five steps to finding the right private school.