AN OUR KIDS REPORT:La Villa Montessori School vs. Head Start Montessori School

one-to-one comparison:

View La Villa Montessori School's full report
VS.
View Head Start Montessori School's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    1943 Ironoak Way Unit 106, Oakville, Ontario, L6H0N1, Canada

    105-2235 Sheppard Ave East , North York, Ontario, M2J 5B5, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    2012

    2002

    Enrolment

    90

    84

    Grades

    Nursery/Toddler to 6

    Nursery/Toddler to 3

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English, French

    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.
    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."

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Montessori

    Montessori

    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.
    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.

    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

    Varies

    Varies

    Special needs support

    Gifted learner support

    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.
    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

    $8,100 to $15,608

    $14,500 to $18,500

    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

    8

    11

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    100%

    7%

    Day entry years

    Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K

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

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Not available

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - K

    No

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    information not available

    HEAD START MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    La Villa rightly prides itself in offering a very authentic presentation of the Montessori method, and for many families that is a primary draw. As such, students are engaged in an active, hands-on, cooperative environment, where the core curriculum is delivered in consort with a growing understanding of their place in the community of the school and beyond. Close attention is given to the acquisition of skills as well as interpersonal, physical, and emotional development.

    View full report

    HEAD START MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Unique to Head Start Montessori is the deep involvement of its founder and director, Naureen Shah, along with director Sara Alvi, who both maintain a hands-on approach and an open-door policy, further strengthening the school’s welcoming environment. Head Start Montessori offers one of Toronto’s only infant Montessori programs, extending up to Grade 3. The school adheres to the AMI Philosophy, is CCMA Accredited, and CCYEA Licensed, reflecting its commitment to high-quality Montessori education. The school’s non-competitive atmosphere and lack of traditional testing contribute to self-driven academic achievements among students. With a focus on individual needs and collaboration with families, Head Start Montessori nurtures well-rounded development, preparing students for lifelong success. Additionally, the school’s curriculum is individualized, encompassing infant, toddler, casa environments, and lower elementary grades, along with extracurriculars like music, yoga, and gymnastics. The school provides summer and March camps, catered hot lunches, and places a strong emphasis on creating a warm, personalized community.

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    "My child appreciates the independence"
    hina marsonia - Parent   (Feb 13, 2018)
    My child appreciates the independence she has in choosing her activities and material that she works... View full review

    Teachers instill confidence and motivation
    Christine Johnson - Parent   (Feb 16, 2018)
    My child's experience has been better than I ever could have imagined. Even if we have had a bad mo... View full review

    HEAD START MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    information not available

  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    "La Villa Montessori School is a charming community school dedicated to fulfill the intrinsic needs of each child by following Dr. Montessori’s principles and guidelines of the Association Montessori Internationale (A.M.I.). Our mission is to create a safe, stimulating and nurturing environment that satisfies a child’s emotional, social, physical and intellectual needs. By addressing these needs, the children become active and productive members of society while fostering a life-long love of learning."

    • Association Montessori Internationale (A.M.I.) recognized
    • Young Children's Community (15 months-30 months)
    • Primary (30 months-6 years)
    • Elementary (6-12 years)

    HEAD START MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    "Head Start Montessori School was founded by Naureen Shah in 2002, because of her firm belief in Maria Montessori's vision, that the child, if provided with the right environment, will reach their full potential. Growing in the North York community, Naureen was joined by Sara Alvi in 2013, and they have now achieved their goal of nurturing children from the age of 9 months-9 years old. HSM is one of the only infant Montessori programs in Toronto, now going up to Grade 3. Both Naureen and Sara are Montessori trained teacher"

    • Follow the AMI Philosophy
    • CCMA Accredited
    • CCYEA Licenced
    • Infant/Nido Program Age 9-18 months
    • Young Children's Community (Toddler) Age 18 months -3 years old
    • 2 Casa Environments Age 2.5-6 years old
    • Lower Elementary Grade 1, 2 and 3
    • Extra Curricular Programs - Music, Yoga, Gymnastics
    • Summer and March Camps
    • Catered Hot Lunches

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    HEAD START MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    "Each child at Head Start Montessori has an individualized Montessori curriculum. With both owners, Naureen and Sara, being Montessori trained teachers, parents can be rest assured that their child(ren) are being provided with an authentic Montessori education. We believe that the parents and the school have to collaborate in the best interest of the child. Keeping this in mind, HSM holds many parent workshops throughout the year, as learning never stops!"

    Array

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

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    HEAD START MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    HEAD START MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    HEAD START MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    HEAD START MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    HEAD START MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    "HSM provides a warm, loving, personalized community of like-minded parents, staff and owners who believe in the importance of the foundational years of a child's life. The collaboration of Families-School is very important to Head Start Montessori and we have an open-door policy where parents are always welcome. HSM prides itself on good communication and transparency. We also have a Parent Council, ensuring that we are all working in the best interest of the children."

    Array

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

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    HEAD START MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    HEAD START MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    "Starting with our youngest in the infant room, families don't realize the time, energy, effort and unconditional love each member of the school provides, in order to make Head Start Montessori a home away from home.
    Our bond with families doesn't end when they leave. Our students come back to volunteer and visit throughout the year. Through numerous siblings, our school stays connected to many families for more than a decade, forming strong relationships and becoming like family."

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    HEAD START MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    "Both owners, Sara Alvi and Naureen Shah, are Montessori trained teachers, and are always present at the school. They are both passionate about their work, and love to talk about Montessori, life and the children. Their office is always open for quick chat and a cup of tea!"

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    HEAD START MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    HEAD START MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

             La Villa Montessori School came to fruition after years of imagining what the ideal environment would be like for my own children. I had come to truly understand the African proverb, "It takes a village to raise a child" in order to provide the most positive and healthy environment for the children to thrive in every way. In Latin, the word Villa (Villam) refers to a farm or village and so it became La Villa Montessori School and the very essence of our community. After our first year of operating in 2015, I saw that having a strong cohesive community between the parents and staff at La Villa being a pillar of support and guidance for the children in our care.  We continue to provide the highest level of care and compassion for the children while fostering a trust and support with our parents. 

    As one of a handful of internationally recognized Montessori schools in Canada following AMI’s standards of quality and authenticity, we are very proud to have this distinction to support and grow the Montessori movement around the world. 

    I invite you to visit us and see what La Villa Montessori School is all about. Thank you.

    Dear Parents, 

    We welcome you to Head Start Montessori School.  For over 20 years we have been an important part of the community, promoting Montessori Education and overall well-being for our children.  Please call or e-mail us to schedule an appointment to come and visit the school.  We look forward to meeting.

  • 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

    LA VILLA 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

    HEAD START 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


    What the school says

    What the school says

    LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    HEAD START MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    • We offer the following Extra Curricular Activities Yoga Dance Music Gymnastics
  • 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%

    7%

    Day entry years

    Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K

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

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Not available

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - K

    No

    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

    What the school says

    What the school says

    HEAD START MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    ADMISSION POLICY

    We ask that all interested families:

    • Meet the Principal and discuss your vision
    • Learn about Montessori and the school’s philosophy and vision
    • Tour the school and its facilities
    • Partake in a 20-minute classroom observation
    • Schedule a follow-up meeting to discuss further questions, perceptions, and/or concerns and ensure a mutual understanding has been established

     

    ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

    • Registration Form for enrollment. 
    • Up-to-date Public Health Immunization Form or Conscientious Objection Form
    • A “one-time” Registration Fee (Non-refundable)
    • Payment for one month’s tuition to confirm enrollment (Note: This check is to cover the June tuition and is non-refundable)
    • Nine (9) post-dated monthly tuition cheques dated  the first of each month

    (September 1st – May 1st); payable to “Head Start Montessori School”

     

    WITHDRAWAL POLICY

    • The school requests that written notice of permanent withdrawal be provided to the school two months in advance.  Parents will be invoiced for full program fees if notice is not received. 
    • A permanent space cannot be guaranteed if you wish to temporarily withdraw your child.    Therefore, your child will be placed on a waiting list and the enrollment process will begin again.
    • There is no deduction or refund in monthly fee due to absenteeism, personal vacations, school closure (snow days) and/or holidays. 
  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

Compare:

LA VILLA MONTESSORI SCHOOL:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  

HEAD START MONTESSORI SCHOOL:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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