For a comprehensive guide to Montessori education, including a detailed discussion of the Montessori philosophy and classroom, read our introductory guide.
Vaughan Montessori school approach
Montessori schools in Vaughan (including Thornhill, Woodbridge, and Concord) are a great option for many families. They offer challenging programs for students of different ages. From preschool to secondary school, they offer mixed-age classrooms, usually for children aged 0-3 (or 1.5-3), 3-6, 6-9, 9-12, and 12-15.
Mixed-age classrooms promote plenty of interaction, collaboration, and child-to-child teaching. It also leads to a dynamic classroom with lots of engaging and stimulating work.
Below, the Montessori approach is discussed in more detail. For more detailed coverage, see our main Montessori school guide.
The Montessori philosophy is unique. It includes several effective educational principles, including the following
- Self-directed work: There's no one-size-fits-all curriculum. Kids can move around the class, choose their own work, and determine the pace of their studies. In this setting, they often choose tasks that are engaging. This can inspire a love of learning, sometimes a life-long one.
- Concrete learning: Similar to Waldorf, Montessori schools offer lots of concrete and hands-on learning. This is especially true at the preschool and elementary level. Children work with plenty of concrete materials. This engages many of their different senses, which is often an effective way to learn.
- Uninterrupted work time: Children are given lots of uninterrupted work time. In some schools, they’re given at least one 3-hour, uninterrupted work period a day. This allows kids to focus on their chosen work, free of interruptions. Uninterrupted work time can improve children’s concentration, self-discipline, and work habits.
- Integrated curriculum: Subjects are usually taught in an inter-disciplinary way, rather than on their own. For instance, students may be given what's called a great lesson on the beginning of life. In this lesson, they'll learn about science, history, religion, and other subjects.
Montessori teaching approach
Montessori school teachers rarely provide whole-class lectures. They rarely stand at the front of the class and lecture to all the students. And when they do provide lectures or lessons, these tend to be short, interactive, and engaging.
More often, though, teachers move around the class, and provide guidance and support to students. One of their main aims is to connect children with meaningful work. They also encourage them to repeat and practice activities, and plan projects to meet the specific learning needs of each child. Teachers are thus viewed more as “guides” or “mentors” than “teachers” in the traditional sense.
Montessori schools in Vaughan
Vaughan is located in the York region of Ontario, just north of Toronto. It has six main municipalities: Woodbridge, Vaughan Metropolitan Centre (VMC), Maple, Thornhill, Concord, and Kleinburg. Each of these has its own unique community feel and culture.
There are plenty of Montessori schools in the Vaughan region. This includes several different kinds of private schools, including a number of Montessori schools and preschools.
A Vaughan Montessori school can be a great option for many families. Most of these schools are certified by a world-recognized accrediting institute, such as the CCMA. They also normally have dedicated teachers trained by AMI or MACTE (the Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education).
Choosing a Montessori school in Vaughan
Don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions of each of the Vaughan Montessori schools you're interested in. Consider the following questions before choosing a school:
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Vaughan Montessori schools are there?
There are 9 Vaughan Montessori schools that are Our Kids trusted members.
How much is tuition at Vaughan Montessori schools?
Tuition fees for Vaughan Montessori schools range from $500 to $70,095 per year with an average tuition of $24,255 per year.
What’s the largest school?
Of the Vaughan Montessori schools, the largest is St. Andrew's College with 648 students in Grades 5 to 12.
Are Vaughan Montessori schools good?
We interviewed both parents and students. You can read reviews about Vaughan Montessori schools on this page.
Is there a private school expo where I can meet with Vaughan Montessori schools?
Yes. You can meet with private schools and education experts at the Our Kids Private School Expos held every year in September and October. These events are designed for both parents and students. Find event details and ticket info here.