AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Western Heights Montessori Academy vs. Passages Centre for Self-Directed Learning

one-to-one comparison:

View Western Heights Montessori Academy's full report
VS.
View Passages Centre for Self-Directed Learning's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

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

    310 Danforth Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M4K 1N6, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    2015

    2020

    Enrolment

    165

    18

    Grades

    Nursery/Toddler to 2

    5 to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    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.
    Social
    The goal is to cultivate "socially aware and active citizens, motivated to change the world (or their community) for the better."

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Montessori

    Progressive

    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

    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

    3 to 10

    Special needs support

    Learning, Developmental, Behavioral

    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.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $7,900 to $12,300

    Boarding Tuition

    Financial aid (FA)

    No

    Yes

    Students on FA

    0%

    70%

    Eligible grades for FA

    None

    6 to 12

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $4,000

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    24

    2

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    95%

    Day entry years

    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

    No

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    information not available

    PASSAGES CENTRE FOR SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING

    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

    PASSAGES CENTRE FOR SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING

    Passages Centre for Self-Directed Learning stands out as an alternative centre for its commitment to empowering students with a passion for learning and a sense of autonomy and community participation. At the heart of the centre’s approach is personalized, interest-based learning, guided by one-on-one mentorship and coaching. The centre operates with a flexible schedule from Monday to Thursday and prioritizes a supportive community environment that affirms neurodiversity and inclusivity. A key feature of Passages is its democratic, youth-run community meetings, which allow students to voice concerns and participate in decision-making processes. Classes and workshops are student-driven, which gives students the chance to develop their sense of autonomy and active engagement. Embracing the Sudbury Valley and Summerhill educational philosophies, the centre aims to provide a safe space where students can thrive. Recently, the centre moved to a larger facility in East Toronto, enhancing its community spaces and introducing a Passages Restoration Circle for conflict resolution. The centre is committed to maintaining a small, close-knit community.

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    information not available

    PASSAGES CENTRE FOR SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING

    "Passages has a small, diverse and exceptional student body."
    Tara Turner - Parent   (Jul 03, 2024)
    For my son, Passages is his community. He enrolled in the Centre when he was 11, after being homesch... View full review

    "The learners at Passages are wonderful and represent a dynamic, inclusive and accepting community."
    Jessika Eldridge - Parent   (Aug 13, 2024)
    My son finds the autonomy at the school to be very appealing. The ability to focus his time on his i... View full review

    "The connection between students, parents and mentors is one of the unique and great aspects of Passages."
    Sonya Goldberg - Parent   (Sep 04, 2024)
    My daughter has benefited greatly from attending Passages. She had originally attended a TDSB high s... 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/

    PASSAGES CENTRE FOR SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING

    "Passages is a truly alternative approach to education for young people ages 10-18. We know that when one feels good, they do good. Many of our youth haven't felt very "good" for much of their school life, and now that they're able to be in community with others whom they connect with, the real learning begins. We offer an inclusive, personalized education with one-on-one mentorship, classes and coaching. Self-directed learning helps young people create the education they want to accomplish goals they choose."

    • Individualized education based on interests
    • 1:1 mentoring and coaching
    • Support to obtain credits
    • Flexible attendance and schedule
    • Youth-run democratic community
    • Neurodiversity affirming - ADHD, ASD (low needs), LDs
    • 2SLGBTQ+ inclusive space
    • A safe(r) community that cares for one another
    • Respect for individual and diverse learners

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    PASSAGES CENTRE FOR SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING

    "Passages is a self-directed democratic school experience modeled after Summerhill School and Sudbury Valley School.

    As a democratically run space, decisions go through our youth-led Weekly Community Meeting. This meeting, offers an opportunity to be engaged in a democratic process through proposals brought forward by peers and discussed by all using the Sociocratic decision-making processes. Meetings offer skills such as practicing public speaking, listening to opposing views, learning consent-based democracy, and thinking creatively to support one another.

    A personalized education is also part of the Passages experience. The 1:1 weekly mentoring meetings focus on the individual and their needs through discussions with their Mentor. It is a time for learners to reflect and share challenges and achievements, roadblocks and breakthroughs, goals and action plans. Mentors support them in creating schedules and timelines and gain a better understanding their learning needs and goals"

    Array

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

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    PASSAGES CENTRE FOR SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING

    "Many young people who join us feel the traditional model of education hasn't met their needs. They are highly creative, gifted/2E, ADHD or ASD (low needs) and have a strong sense of justice and need for autonomy. We empower them to take the reins of their education, understanding that facts and information are so readily available that the core focus needs to be on how one learns, how to communicate effectively and many other soft skills needed for next life steps. While Learners are supported to do high school credits if they desire, our goal is to preserve or rejuvenate their deep love of learning and curiosity. Our offerings of classes and workshops, they can opt-in to, helps to shape their education.

    Self-directed learning means there are no compulsory classes, exams, or grades. We do not offer an OSSD, however, that does not limit the learner's post-secondary education if that is what they choose to do. Part of our mentorship is working with the young people to create this path."

    Array

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

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    PASSAGES CENTRE FOR SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING

    "Inspired by the philosophies of Sudbury Valley School and Summerhill School we opened in 2020 with one student enrolled and have grown to reach almost 50 families over the last 4 years. Many families had children who weren't thriving in the traditional model of education and could see the spark in their child dimming.

    As we've fine-tuned our community, many, but not all, of the young people who join us are neurodiverse (ADHD, ASD-low needs), might struggle with their mental health, and may identify in the 2SLGBTQ+ community. There's a reason someone doesn't fit the traditional system which is why it's so important to have options available to all.

    We pride ourselves on being a safe(r) space, allowing youth to meet their needs through proposing centre changes and ideas at our weekly democratic community meeting. We are about empowerment and encouraging autonomy."

    Array

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

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    PASSAGES CENTRE FOR SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING

    "Passages is not for every family, but when families are struggling with school resistance and arguments in the home about attendance and homework, tests and grades, it's a good time to consider an alternative. Our approach to education is about non-coercion and freedom so the young person can feel empowered and supported in what they want for their life and education.

    Many youth who are neurodiverse or have mental health challenges can feel burned out by the grind of classes at school which can "feel pointless" or have no direct meaning to their life. For learning to stick, topics need to be in context to their lives, they ask themselves, "Is this important to me?"

    Families have commented they feel we're the best of the homeschool world and school world. Personalized learning and support, flexibility and a community of peers and friends with similar goals of leading their education."

    Array

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

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    PASSAGES CENTRE FOR SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING

    "While we value a rich and diverse education, we do not use coercion, awards or grades to essentially convince young people to participate in their education. We want them to be fully invested in their own goals.

    We do not offer grades, credits, or a high school diploma, but we do support youth who have made the choice to get their credits or diplomas. We are about choice and autonomy, so if this is their personal desire, we support that.

    Many families who feel we aren't a fit are families who want their child to "just get through school" or to "just get your diploma." We want to preserve a love of learning and curiosity, and those two ideas are at odds when a child is forced to do homework and tests.

    When families join a centre like ours, where youth voices are centred, that can feel challenging since most of us come from a top-down system. Much of the work of letting go of society's pressures, expectations and judgement will be the parent's work during their time with us."

    Array

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

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    PASSAGES CENTRE FOR SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING

    "The story we hear again and again after their child has joined us is "I finally have my kid back." Many parents had witnessed the light and spark in their child dim over the years as they worked through the school system. Many kids flat out refused to attend and parents felt lost as to what to do. Because we have flexible attendance young people make the choice to come. Some think that because of this choice they will choose NOT to come, but the opposite happens. They get up for the day, excited to join us and they spend their days engaging in learning, conversations and making friends.

    For many young people, simply having full choice allows them the space to reduce pressure or self-criticism and shift their thinking toward who they are and what they want.

    Youth at our centre become very skilled in group decision-making, empathy, planning and taking control of their education. They deepen knowledge about themselves and what will make them successful on their terms."

    Array

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

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    PASSAGES CENTRE FOR SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING

    "When people think about Passages, they envision what their education could have looked like. We often hear, "I wish this were around when I was in school." This is because as people have grown into adulthood, they see how much time they were in school being required to focus their time and energy on information that either didn't prepare them for adulthood or wasn't something they felt they needed at that time in their life. Once introduced to self-directed learning, they can see the power of this approach which allows one to focus on interests and strengths and how that combination creates a rich learning experience rooted in self-confidence and valuing ones contributions."

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    PASSAGES CENTRE FOR SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING

    "Our focus on community is not just for the Learners - parents and siblings are also very much included in the centre and all we offer. Each week we send current families a weekly update sharing stories from the week, photos, and upcoming important dates. We consider these updates a bridge between the Centre and home, understanding that it's hard for parents to get a lot of info from their child/teen at the end of the day! Offering these weekly updates allows parents to springboard off what they read and to have deeper conversations with their child.

    We also offer monthly parent community gatherings to discuss life and self-directed learning challenges and gather advice on how to resolve any challenges they may be experiencing in the home.

    The self-directed learning world is vast with workshops and training, so we are sure to keep parents up to date with all the goings-on."

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    PASSAGES CENTRE FOR SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING

    "When people learn about Passages and the self-directed philosophy, the attitude is usually that their child "would only play games all day" or that their child doesn't have interests. Their experience of their child may only be who they see at the end of a long day of school or during weekends recovering. After a time of having choice and autonomy at the Centre, many young people start to take more risks, try new ideas and engage in their learning at a deeper level. They start to bring their ideas to the Community Meeting and feel valued when others support what they've proposed. They can then form a small committee to make it happen.

    A surprising piece that new families learn is that many of our youth choose to attend Math and English classes without an adult telling them to. Young people recognize that they like certain aspects of subjects and want to expand their knowledge at their own pace."

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    PASSAGES CENTRE FOR SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING

    "In August 2023, Passages Centre moved to the East End of Toronto on the Danforth into a larger space complete with three rooms—a common room, classroom, and art room—as well as a full-size gym and an outfitted courtyard for sunny days spent working outside.

    As our community has grown, so have our processes. Through youth decision-making, we created our Passages Restoration Circle (PRC), which is used for conflict resolution and group empathy building. The PRC is facilitated by Learners who have been trained in mediation to support their peers through issues they may be struggling with. Staff support the facilitator in having a successful circle where young people can express their needs and come to an agreement peacefully."

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    PASSAGES CENTRE FOR SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING

    "As Passages has become more established, our community has grown to include more families, volunteers and staff. This has allowed more options for our Learners as they embark on their projects within Passages but also outwards in the surrounding community. Our goal is not to become a large populated school, but rather the size of about 40-50 Learners. Should demand exceed this number, the board has considered that a new location would open. This would be a welcomed challenge!"

  • 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

    As the founder of Passages Centre and a long-time homeschooler for my children (now teens!), I could see the need for an alternative education in Toronto where young people can come together within a community to work on what is meaningful to them. 

    Passages is a unique space full of creative young people who have a strong sense of justice and challenge themselves to be more aware of social issues that impact their lives. They embrace the democratic nature of our space, taking ownership of decision-making, committees, financial planning and the culture of the space. 

    As young people choose to take the reins of their education, it takes a special kind of staff to support them without taking over or letting our egos get in the way. It takes support from below to trust that these young people know what they need for this moment in their lives or are capable of finding the answers or asking for help. 

    Allowing someone to flourish on their timeline is far from the typical approach to education, where the expectation is that everyone has the same knowledge because they’re in the same grade. We allow space for people to flex and grow or dive deep into an interest because they have an innate desire. 

    Witnessing young people move through their days and learn holistically is an honour. On a typical day, conversations throughout the space can range from art techniques to world religion to forming committees to addressing needs within the Centre. We flex, adapt, and work within our democratic approach to meet everyone’s needs. 

    As we’ve moved through the years, the people who join us have typically feel ‘othered’ in their traditional school community, for a variety of reasons. Others just felt the education system didn’t feel right, and they may have already be fully resisting attending school. 

    Focusing on the individual to create a connection centred on autonomy and choice, respecting young people, and providing community within a safe(r) environment allows for an unmatched learning experience in the city. 

    I feel privileged that we have provided a space for all kinds of young people, where they can feel valued and accepted as who they are. This acceptance bleeds into their self-image which then positively influences their learning goals. 

    Heading into year five we look forward to more families joining us and growing our small but mighty community! 

  • SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT

    FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIES

    A - Forms of Support

    Accommodation:
    Modification:
    Remediation:

    B - Environments

    Indirect Support:
    Resource Assistance:
    Withdrawal Assistance:
    Partial Integration:
    Full-Time Class:
    Forms of Support Environments Forms of Support Environments
    ADHD (moderate to severe)
    This is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Children with ADHD may be hyperactive and unable control their impulses. Or they may have trouble paying attention. These behaviors can interfere with school and home life.
    Learning disabilities
    Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability)
    This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment.
    Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)
    This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language.
    Dyscalculia
    This is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money.
    Dysgraphia
    This is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.
    Language Processing Disorder
    This is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.
    Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD)
    These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills.
    Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit
    A characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination.
    Developmental
    Autism
    Refers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome).
    Asperger's Syndrome
    On the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour.
    Down syndrome
    his is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.
    Intellectual disability
    This is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation).
    Williams syndrome
    This is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems.
    Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
    Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems.
    Behavioral and Emotional
    Troubled behaviour / troubled teens
    roubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety.
    Clinical Depression
    This is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life.
    Clinical anxiety
    This is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror.
    Suicidal thoughts
    This involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.
    Drug and alcohol abuse
    This involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning.
    Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
    This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning.
    Physical
    Multiple sclerosis
    This is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties.
    Cerebral palsy
    his refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture.
    Muscular dystrophy
    Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.
    Spina Bifida
    This is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine.
    Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder)
    This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech.
    Blindness
    Visual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness."
    Deafness
    Hearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds).
    Cystic Fibrosis
    Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults.
    Multiple physical
    Accommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.

    Additional support

    Additional support

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    PASSAGES CENTRE FOR SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    INFORMAL SUPPORT FOR MILD DIFFICULTIES

    Learning Strategy

    Extra Support

    Mild but clinically diagnosed ADHD

    Accommodations


    Additional support

    Additional support

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    PASSAGES CENTRE FOR SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy


    What the school says about their special needs support

    What the school says about their special needs support

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    PASSAGES CENTRE FOR SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING

    When a child's need for autonomy is beyond what schools can offer, self-directed learning is an option. This suits many with ADHD and ASD (level 1)


    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    PASSAGES CENTRE FOR SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING

    Passages adapts as much as feasible so that there is a fit within the community.

  • 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

    PASSAGES CENTRE FOR SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING

    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!
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    6 - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    70%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $4,000

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    95%

    Day entry years

    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

    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

    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!

    PASSAGES CENTRE FOR SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING

    Youth who thrive at our Centre are ones who have a desire to be a part of a community that cares for one another. Self-directed learning can be done anywhere so while we do offer mentoring support and guidance, what young people truly value is our community. Being willing to engage with peers, attend the Restoration Circle if requested, and generally be supportive of the community, is what we are looking for.

    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 

     

     

    PASSAGES CENTRE FOR SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING

    All interested youth first attend a Discovery Week to ensure we’re a good fit for all. During this time, your child will join us like the other Learners, attending classes they choose, working on projects or exploring materials, working on credit classes, or simply getting to know everyone.

    They can join us in the gym, cooking in the kitchen or on any outings. The fee for this week is $175.

    Discovery Weeks are on-going throughout the year.

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

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WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY:
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