AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Western Heights Montessori Academy vs. Lycée international de Calgary

one-to-one comparison:

View Western Heights Montessori Academy's full report
VS.
View Lycée international de Calgary's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

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

    4099 Garrison Blvd SW, Calgary, Alberta, T2T 6G2, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    2015

    1966

    Enrolment

    165

    463

    Grades

    Nursery/Toddler to 2

    Preschool to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Homestay, Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English, French

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

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

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Montessori

    Traditional

    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.

    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

    14 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

    $16,150 to $18,310

    Boarding Tuition

    Financial aid (FA)

    No

    Yes

    Students on FA

    0%

    5%

    Eligible grades for FA

    None

    1 to 12

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $7,000

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    24

    29

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    85%

    Day entry years

    Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    No

    Yes: grades Preschool - K

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    information not available

    LYCéE INTERNATIONAL DE CALGARY

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    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

    LYCéE INTERNATIONAL DE CALGARY

    In Canada, “lycée” most typically references a relationship with the French ministry of education, and that’s true of Lycée international de Calgary. That’s of interest to French nationals, perhaps particularly, or to families expecting to move outside of Canada—say to France, for example—prior to the end of a student’s secondary career. Indeed, when the school was established in 1966, that’s exactly the community it was intending to address, and enrolment was reserved for the children of French nationals. Times have changed, and today most families that enrol at Lycée international de Calgary don’t fall into that narrow category. Rather, they are looking for a strong language program, one that is more robust than those found in public schools. They are also looking for a curriculum that is delivered through a different lens, one that is more cognizant of the diversity of the global community, and more reflective of a student’s place within that wider world. Certainly, Lycée international de Calgary provides all of that. The ideal student is one looking for a challenge and to learn within a diverse community of peers.

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    information not available

    LYCéE INTERNATIONAL DE CALGARY

    "...our children have so much more confidence in their work. The positive energy and encouragement is so helpful."
    Brigitte Smith - Parent   (May 14, 2018)
    I have to say that the class sizes really are what make our children feel comfortable, less kids mak... View full review

    "...great teachers and remarkable academic program."
    Deniz Basibuyuk - Parent   (May 23, 2018)
    My daughter enjoyed the school environment and the size of the school allowed kids to feel like it�... View full review

  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    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 12 years of age. Voted as the best child care centre in Oakville and Mississauga, 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 four consecutive years
    • Schedule your private tour today: http://www.westernheightsmontessori.com/schedule-a-tour/
    • Contact us: http://www.westernheightsmontessori.com/contact-us/

    LYCéE INTERNATIONAL DE CALGARY

    "Lycée international de Calgary is a private French school, part of a network of about 600 French schools in 140 countries worldwide. Offering full-day programs from Preschool to Grade 12, with small class sizes and bilingual learning, it is Calgary's only school accredited by both the French Ministry of Education and Alberta Education. Join us in providing a nurturing, inclusive, multicultural, and multilingual learning environment that empowers your child to thrive academically, socially, and culturally."

    • Bilingual instruction with exceptional academic standards
    • Learn within an international environment
    • Lycée Calgary teaches the French Ministry of Education and Alberta Education curricula.
    • Alberta High School Diploma and French Baccalaureate
    • Member of CAIS, AFSA, AISCA and AEFE

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    LYCéE INTERNATIONAL DE CALGARY

    "We are proud to offer a unique bilingual educational experience. We are the only school in Calgary that follows both the French Ministry of Education and Alberta Education curricula. Our school stands out as the sole institution in Calgary to provide this comprehensive program. From the age of 3, our students engage in stimulating learning activities tailored to their developmental stage. We are committed to providing every student with a bilingual education that equips them for future success in French or in English. At Lycée, we ensure personalized attention and tailored instruction for every student. Our teachers can focus on the individual needs and learning styles of each student, fostering a supportive and conducive learning environment."

    Array

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

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    LYCéE INTERNATIONAL DE CALGARY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    LYCéE INTERNATIONAL DE CALGARY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    LYCéE INTERNATIONAL DE CALGARY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    LYCéE INTERNATIONAL DE CALGARY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    LYCéE INTERNATIONAL DE CALGARY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    LYCéE INTERNATIONAL DE CALGARY

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    LYCéE INTERNATIONAL DE CALGARY

    Information not available

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    LYCéE INTERNATIONAL DE CALGARY

    Information not available

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    LYCéE INTERNATIONAL DE CALGARY

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    LYCéE INTERNATIONAL DE CALGARY

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    Dear parents and students,

    Welcome to Western Heights Montessori Academy, where every child's journey of discovery and growth is celebrated. As the Head of School, I am thrilled to lead a dedicated team of educators committed to nurturing young minds through the Montessori pedagogy. Our holistic approach to education, tailored for children aged 6 months to grade 2, fosters independence, curiosity, and a lifelong love for learning.

    At Western Heights, we believe in providing a nurturing environment where each child is empowered to explore, discover, and flourish at their own pace. Our Montessori-inspired classrooms offer hands-on learning experiences that inspire creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration.

    As we embark on this journey together, I invite you to partner with us in creating an enriching educational experience for your child. Together, let's cultivate a community where every child feels valued, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential.

    I look forward to witnessing the growth and achievements of each and every student at Western Heights Montessori Academy.

    Warm Regards,

    Helen Mansour

    Head of School

    Western Heights Montessori Academy

    Dear Families,

    Welcome to Lycée international de Calgary, the K-12 school where we cultivate global minds and open hearts en français!

    As the new Head of School, I am thrilled to embark on this journey with such a remarkable community. My passion for French education has been a defining part of my life for over two decades, with 18 enriching years spent at Lycée Français de Toronto. I started as a Spanish teacher for the Upper School and eventually rose to the position of Deputy Head. This journey has deepened my dedication to plurilingual education and cultural competence—values that resonate deeply with our school’s mission. I am privileged to collaborate with our dedicated staff and supportive families, fostering a sense of belonging and a keen enthusiasm for learning in our students through our challenging bilingual academic program.

    At Lycée Calgary, we take great pride in our distinctive educational approach. By seamlessly integrating the rigorous French curriculum with the locally anchored Alberta curriculum, we create an unparalleled learning environment in Calgary. Here, our students do more than learn in two languages—they thrive, gaining a global perspective through our dual curriculum. By fostering curiosity, kindness, and a broad worldview in each student, we prepare them to become the informed and engaged citizens that the future demands.

    Our dedicated educators are the cornerstone of our school. Each one brings a unique blend of expertise and enthusiasm, working tirelessly to create an innovative and inclusive environment where every student can realize their potential. Thanks to their outstanding competence and commitment, our children grow into confident French speakers and culturally aware global citizens. We are truly fortunate to have such an exceptional team of educators guiding our students.

    Whether you’re a current family considering joining us, or simply curious about our community, I invite you to explore our website and discover the transformative educational journey we offer.

    At Lycée international de Calgary, we do not just prepare students for the world; we inspire them to shape it.

  • 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

    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

    LYCéE INTERNATIONAL DE CALGARY

    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

    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!

    LYCéE INTERNATIONAL DE CALGARY

    • Climbing Club
    • 3 to 5 year old clubs - Young Rembrandts, ballet, music lessons and Yoga.
    • Leadership club where students organize charitable event to give back to the greater community.
    • Club NASA - Nasa Academy of Future Space Explorers
    • 3D Printing & Early Engineers Clubs
    • Fencing Club
    • Little Medical & Little Veterinarian School Clubs
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    1 - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    5%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $7,000

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    85%

    Day entry years

    Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    No

    Yes: grades Preschool - K

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    Yes: grades 1 - 12

    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!

    LYCéE INTERNATIONAL DE CALGARY

    We conduct an informal assessment with preschool-aged children and formally test for entrance in Grade 1 and above.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    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 

     

     

    LYCéE INTERNATIONAL DE CALGARY

    All linguistic backgrounds are welcome.

    No prior French exposure is needed to enroll in our Preschool and Kindergarten Programs.

    Our French Language Intensive Program (FLIP) allows us to welcome new students (Grades 1 and 2) who have little or no prior exposure to the French language. 

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

Compare:

WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  

LYCéE INTERNATIONAL DE CALGARY:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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