AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Shepherd Montessori Private Catholic School vs. The Hill Academy

one-to-one comparison:

View Shepherd Montessori Private Catholic School's full report
VS.
View The Hill Academy's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    2246 Camilla Road, Mississauga, Ontario, L5A 2J6, Canada

    20490 Porterfield Road, Caledon, Ontario, L7K1T2, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    2000

    2006

    Enrolment

    24

    235

    Grades

    Nursery/Toddler to SK

    JK to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Day, Homestay, Boarding

    Language of instruction

    English

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Sports

    Developmental Priorities

    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
    Spiritual
    The goal is to cultivate "individuals with inner resourcefulness, strong faith and respect for God or a higher power."
    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
    Physical
    The goal is to cultivate "strong, ?exible - bodied and active individuals, in tune with the joys of movement, sport and wellness."

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Traditional

    Curriculum pace

    Standard-enriched
    Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
    Standard-enriched
    Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.

    Academic culture

    Rigorous
    A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.

    Avg. Class Size

    10 to 15

    6 to 18

    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.
    Academic
    Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $7,070 to $11,960

    $13,500 to $22,100

    Boarding Tuition

    $44,600 to $49,600

    Financial aid (FA)

    No

    Yes

    Students on FA

    0%

    40%

    Eligible grades for FA

    None

    7 to 12

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $2,500

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    6

    16

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    32%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    100%

    100%

    Day entry years

    Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Not available

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Rolling

    Interview required?

    No

    No

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    SHEPHERD MONTESSORI PRIVATE CATHOLIC SCHOOL

    When Edgerton Ryerson established a national, public education system, he highlighted the need for consistency: every school should be the same, offer the same things, from coast to coast. Sadly, that conception of what schools should be, and what they should provide, remains doggedly with us today. Thankfully, schools like Shepherd Montessori step away from that model, choosing rather to offer something as unique as the community they are formed to serve. Shepherd is a school using the Montessori method to deliver a program that is also based in the values of the Catholic church. In that, it’s happily one of a kind. Further, the student population is small, allowing a heightened level of individual attention, something that is also a primary draw. The community of the school is diverse, and while not all families are active within the Catholic church, all nevertheless appreciate the school’s attention to developing the students’ understanding of their spiritual selves. The approach in the classroom is child-centered, child-directed, and project oriented. The ideal student is one able to thrive with a close-knit learning environment.

    View full report

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    It’s perhaps easy to wonder why Hill Academy isn’t more widely known, though perhaps for those involved in high school sports in Canada and the US, it is. Which, frankly, is appropriate. It’s a high school program based in the values, dedication, and energy associated with sport, with the daily schedule organized in order to allow students to excel in both academics and athletics. The lessons overlap, and students compete in math contests as successfully as they do sporting events. The ideal student is one looking to grow in both areas, and to do it alongside peers of a like mind, approach, and ability. The school’s success is evident in the careers—again, both academic and athletic—of its alumni, who operate at the top of their fields not only on Ontario, but throughout North America.  

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    "My daughter just completed grade 8 and said it was the best year of her life.
    Caren Morrison (Elson) - Parent   (Jun 22, 2023)
    My daughter just completed grade 8 and said it was "The best year of her life". Being part of a scho... View full review

    "For any young person who is willing to put in the hard work and take full advantage of the opportunities by attending The Hill Academy, it is the perfect fit."
    Brenda Burman - Parent   (Aug 28, 2023)
    Both our sons have had a terrific experience since starting at The Hill Academy. The opportunity for... View full review

    "The quality of instruction at The Hill Academy is very high."
    Sam Kane - Parent   (Feb 29, 2024)
    Our Son Matt, recalls his experience at The Hill Academy as a moulding experience but in a spectacul... View full review

  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    SHEPHERD MONTESSORI PRIVATE CATHOLIC SCHOOL

    "The only Catholic based Montessori School in the GTA (curriculum encouraged and supported by the Archbishop of Toronto). We provide an intimate environment for students aged 2.5 - 5 yrs that stimulates independent thinking and enriches moral development. Faculty and parents work together to foster, within each child, the early habits, attitudes and skills necessary to establish a lifelong joy in learning. Our responsibility is to guide the whole child - spiritually, emotionally, and intellectually."

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    "The Hill Academy is Canada's premier independent school for students in JK- Grade 12/Post Graduate. The 134-acre Caledon campus offers outdoor education, bright classrooms & elite training facilities. The Hill provides a transformational experience and exceptional academic/athletic programs that focus on individual attention, character growth, leadership development & physical literacy. With small class sizes & dedicated staff, our Graduates are prepared for the demands & rigor of post secondary education."

    • Full Day Kindergarten in quaint log cabin with maximum 1 teacher to 8 student ratio
    • Number One Lacrosse Program in the Country
    • 100% Graduation Rate
    • Small Class Sizes with Dedicated, Passionate Teachers
    • Expansive campus allowing for extensive Outdoor Education opportunities
    • Boarding, Homestay and Day Student options
    • Transportation available

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    "Our forest campus, offers day/boarding/homestay students a serene environment to excel academically with our small class sizes, dedicated, caring staff & bright classrooms. Daily character development & outdoor education benefits students physically, emotionally, and socially as they set the foundation for lifelong wellness & good health. Access to physical education backed by Sports Science, ensures athletes can reach their post secondary aspirations of playing a sport at the next level."

    Array

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

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    "While students are engaged in an outstanding academic program, they are working at a level of athletic training normally available only at the College/University level. The Hill provides the foundation for academic, athletic, & personal development enabling each individual to maximize their full potential to succeed at the next level. Athletic & academic scheduling is completely integrated to ensure that each student-athlete is achieving excellence academically & athletically all under one roof"

    Array

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

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    "The relationships formed between our teachers/coaches & students is something we pride our school on. It is these bonds and family connections truly make The Hill Academy a FAMILY and make a difference in the lives, and experience that our students have during their time at The Hill."

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    "Teachers, Coaches & Staff at The Hill truly care about every Hill student & family. With intimate class sizes & direct one-on-one communication, meaningful relationships are formed that last a lifetime. It is these relationships that help students excel academically & athletically through daily accountability, social-emotional development, leadership opportunities, and high expectations for every member of The Hill Community."

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

     

    The Hill Academy is a unique academic and athletic platform to enable dedicated student athletes to get to the next level. Respect and Prepare are the core values of this platform, and are enforced on a daily basis in order to achieve academic excellence, athletic excellence and personal growth. In an athlete-centered approach, every phase of the student-athlete’s experience at the school is designed to fully prepare them to succeed at the next level.

    The Hill Academy student-athletes pursue their dreams and goals with the full support of classmates, teachers, coaches and administrative staff. Our goal is to help student-athletes reach their academic and athletic goals as well as experience personal growth. The Hill Academy dedicates all of its resources to ensuring the success of its student-athletes, in a positive and energizing environment. 

  • 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

    SHEPHERD MONTESSORI PRIVATE CATHOLIC 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

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    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

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    • 2023 National Prep Highschool Lacrosse Champions
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    7 - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    40%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $2,500

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    100%

    100%

    Day entry years

    Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Not available

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Rolling

    Interview required?

    No

    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

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    Hill students are curious, driven, passionate and want to be at The Hill. They want to be surrounded by likeminded peers and want to succeed at every level in anything they do. They understand that they must put in hard work in order to see results both in the classroom and in sport/physical fitness. Hill students are kind, thoughtful, and want to leave a positive legacy in their school, the community and the world. They are challenged to be accountable and hold high expectations for themselves. Hill students want to be active for life through physical fitness and mental wellbeing.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    The Hill Academy offers admission on a rolling basis however with limited positions available and small class sizes, enrollment can close at any time. It is recommended that you apply early. The application is completed and submitted online.

    Before you begin please have the following items ready to upload:

    • Most recent report card (For Grade 2 and higher)
    • Valid Passport or Status Card (For Grade 7 and higher)
    • Health Card (Kindergarten +)

    http://www.thehillacademy.com/admissions/application-process/

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available

    Alumnus (year)
    Accomplishment

    Justin Inacio (2017)
    Masters Degree

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