AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Trinity Montessori School vs. Western Heights Montessori Academy

one-to-one comparison:

View Trinity Montessori School's full report
VS.
View Western Heights Montessori Academy's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    9211 Woodbine Avenue, Markham, Ontario, L3R 0K1, Canada

    6920 Millcreek Drive, Mississauga, Ontario, L5N 4J9, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1999

    2015

    Enrolment

    120

    100

    Grades

    Nursery/Toddler to 6

    Nursery/Toddler to SK

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

    Intellectual
    The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Traditional, Montessori

    Curriculum pace

    Accelerated
    The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).

    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

    Varies

    Varies

    Special needs support

    Gifted learner support

    Dedicated class; in-class adaptations

    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

    $11,000 to $13,000

    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

    11

    25

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    100%

    0%

    Day entry years

    Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades Preschool - 6

    No

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    information not available

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Founded in 1999, TMS has developed a reputation for offering a strong academic program that maintains a high fidelity to the core of the Montessori approach as demonstrated by CCMA accreditation. The program is regularly assessed through certification and EQAO testing, and families are drawn by the keen attention to the development of core numeracy, literacy, and early exposure to French. The size of the school hits a bit of a sweet spot, allowing for a full range of curricular and extracurricular programming, while also maintaining a close, personal, community-oriented feel. The ideal student is one able to thrive in a hands-on, social, challenging yet supportive academic environment.

    View full report

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Student-centred programs and an efficient interface with parents have endeared Western Heights to the families that turn to it. Now with seven locations throughout the GTA, it has all the benefits that come from a larger administration team, while also maintaining a close-knit, community feel at each of the schools. Teachers are skilled, qualified, and engaging. A strong core Montessori program is augmented with language instruction, including Mandarin, and music beginning at the toddler level. On-site catering, with lots of healthy options, is also a draw.

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    "The teachers there are top-notch."
    Winnie Chan - Parent   (Mar 09, 2021)
    My children spent most of their childhood at Trinity Montessori School. They loved the field trips ... View full review

    "The academic excellence at Trinity Montessori School surpassed our expectations."
    E Poon - Parent   (Mar 09, 2021)
    Both of our daughters have been going to Trinity Montessori School since they were 18 months old, an... View full review

    "Going to Montessori Model United Nations in New York City in grade 5 was the highlight in her school life. She had the opportunity to dive into real-world issues and worked with..."
    Thomson Yip - Parent   (May 27, 2021)
    Trinity Montessori School is like our daughter’s second home. She started in the Casa program at t... View full review

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    information not available

  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    "Trinity Montessori School was established in 1999 and is a CCMA accredited school located in Markham. We have an excellent reputation and receive many of our students through direct referral from current and former parents. Our staff members are friendly and nurturing. We strive to instill in children self confidence and a passion for learning through our diverse and enriched educational environment. We offer stimulating intellectual and cultural experiences for children from 1.5 to 12 years old."

    • Founded in 1999
    • Students range from 18 months to 12 years old
    • Located in the heart of Markham
    • Accredited Montessori program
    • Enriching opportunities to showcase student ability in writing, art and math contests
    • Excels in provincial standardized testing, such as EQAO and CAT
    • Develops students into global citizens through initiatives such as Montessori Model United Nations
    • Low student-teacher ratio

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    "Serving the Oakville, Mississauga, Milton and Burlington communities with seven campuses since 2015, Western Heights Montessori Academy offers an enriched Montessori curriculum to children from six months to six years of age. Voted as the best child care centre in Oakville, we believe that every child is special and unique. It is our mission to bring out the full potential in every one of our students by offering a customized, engaged and enriched program in a close-knit, caring environment."

    • Enriched Montessori curriculum with specialized Music, French, Mandarin and Kids Yoga classes.
    • Diamond award winner of Best Child Care in Oakville by Oakville Beaver for three consecutive years
    • Schedule your private tour today: http://www.westernheightsmontessori.com/schedule-a-tour/
    • Contact us: http://www.westernheightsmontessori.com/contact-us/

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    Welcome!

    My name is Elena Ho, the Principal and co-founder of Trinity Montessori School. I've been an educator for 38 years, following two generations of educators, and I believe in a holistic approach to realizing a child's full academic and creative potential.

    Trinity Montessori School is a private school with a longstanding tradition of achieving student success. We facilitate an environment that is equally nurturing and academically rigorous, for outstanding students to exceed beyond what they thought was possible. All of our students are uniquely supported to maximize their potential for academic excellence and further develop an independently-motivated work ethic and enthusiasm for learning, in order to broaden their horizons as citizens of their communities and the world.

    I invite you to learn more about Trinity Montessori School in evaluating the best fit for your child's academic future.

    information not available

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Traditional

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      Information not available


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Montessori

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      Information not available


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Particularly popular in the younger grades (preschool to elementary), but sometimes available all the way up to high school, Montessori schools offer an alternative vision to the standard lesson format of most classrooms. Instead of listening to whole-class lessons, Montessori classrooms allow students to choose which "tasks" or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles - their essential feature being they contain a right answer and allow for selfcorrection. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on lessons being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with students developing a sense of self-sufficiency, confidence and curiosity.


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Our elementary curriculum is based upon Montessori principles, which guide students to learn about the universe and their place in it. Our dedicated teaching staff follows an interdisciplinary approach to learning, highlighting the importance of the interconnectedness and interdependence of different subjects within the curriculum. We strive to enrich our curriculum with elements from the Ontario Curriculum, ensuring that our students are well prepared when they move on to other schools in grade 7. Through our school's participation in the Montessori Model United Nations held annually in New York, our elementary students gain valuable opportunities to engage in global citizenship and enhanced awareness of international social, economic and humanitarian issues and challenges.

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      Information not available

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach

      Approach

      TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Montessori


      Our Take

      Our Take

      TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      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.

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      We have four fully-equipped, bright and spacious Montessori Casa classrooms for ages 2.5 – 6 years old. The curriculum follows the Montessori approach, which offers a broad range of materials to help the child grow independently, academically and socially. Through their work, the children develop concentration, motivation, persistence and discipline, which are qualities that will help the child in their future. All Casa students will receive daily French lessons and weekly music and art lessons from specialized teachers.

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      Information not available

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture


      Our Take

      Our Take

      TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      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”.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      In our Casa program, children are encouraged to work to the best of their ability in order to reach their full potential. The Montessori materials foster a love for learning and aid a child to reach for a high level of academic excellence. Our Elementary program follows the Ontario Curriculum and is enriched with the Montessori philosophy. The blend of both curriculums challenge children to a higher level of academics as well as provides hands-on opportunities to learn through enriched field trips, interactive learning and competitive activities.

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      Information not available


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      "We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      Information not available

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Intellectual
      The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      Not applicable
      Not applicable


      Secondary

      Secondary

      TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Balanced
      Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      Not applicable
      Not applicable


      What the school says

      What the school says

      TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      A balance of both intellect and emotions are criticalin a child's development. Our aim is to foster academically strong and creative individuals, who are confident and capable leaders as well. Ultimately, developing students of character and integrity, who become respected and contributing memebers of society will help prepare our students for the future.

      WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

      Information not available

  • 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

    TRINITY 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

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI 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

    What the school says

    TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    • We offer Kids Yoga, French, Mandarin, and Music class in addition to our Montessori curriculum. As a school with diverse community, we also showcase our learning through culture avenue via our international week open house event!
  • 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%

    0%

    Day entry years

    Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades Preschool - 6

    No

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    Yes: grades 1 - 6

    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

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Our children are Infants, Toddlers, Preschoolers and Kindergarteners. They are very young! We would love to have students who are interested and eager to explore the world around them and strive to be independent!

    What the school says

    What the school says

    TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Toddlers (18 months) to Casa (6years):  Interested families are required to come in for a tour with their child.

    Grade 1 to Grade 6:  An assessment is required to ensure the student can cope with the curriculum provided by the school.

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    1) Schedule a tour at our each individual campuses to get to know more about the curriculum, learning environment and get all your questions answered

    2) Meet-and-Greet with the child during the tour

    3) Submit enrollment forms with a copy of your child's immunization records

    4) Make deposit payment 

     

     

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

Compare:

TRINITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  

WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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