AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Western Heights Montessori Academy vs. St. George's School

one-to-one comparison:

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

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

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

    4175 West 29th Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6S 1V1, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    2015

    1930

    Enrolment

    165

    1212

    Grades

    Nursery/Toddler to 2

    K to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Boys

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Boarding, Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    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

    Montessori

    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.

    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

    20 to 22

    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.
    Play-based
    Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $33,300 to $34,300

    Boarding Tuition

    $70,000 to $94,800

    Financial aid (FA)

    No

    Yes

    Students on FA

    0%

    8%

    Eligible grades for FA

    None

    4 to 12

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $17,500

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    24

    93

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    8%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    0%

    Day entry years

    1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

    Boarding entry years

    8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Not available

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Feb 01, 2019

    Interview required?

    No

    Yes: grades 1 - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    Yes: grades 4 - 12

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    information not available

    ST. GEORGE'S SCHOOL

    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

    ST. GEORGE'S SCHOOL

    Driven by the mission of educating young men who become impactful leaders and community partners, St. George’s School maintains a strong and lively academic culture, enriched with experiential opportunities and a significant number of Advanced Placement (AP) courses. The school's motto, "Building fine young men. One boy at a time," reflects its dedication to individualized attention and holistic development. The school's environment integrates modern, eco-friendly facilities with a focus on natural light and fresh air ventilation. Co-curricular programs are diverse and mandatory, encouraging students to explore various interests, from sports to arts. The boarding program helps to maintain a close-knit community, with activities that leverage Vancouver's local amenities. Boarding students, alongside over a dozen house parents, participate in weekend activities and overnight trips, promoting a sense of extended family. St. George's School aims to shape confident, capable, and compassionate young men who are well-prepared to make meaningful contributions to the world.

    View full report
  • 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/

    ST. GEORGE'S SCHOOL

    "Founded in 1930, St. George's School is a world-class boys school in Vancouver offering a Day Program for students in Grades KG–12 and a Boarding Program for students in Grades 8–12. With a strong emphasis in character development, the school is known for its breadth and depth of curriculum, with over 50 academic electives (25 APs), 40 athletic options, and 50 clubs. A dedicated guidance department ensures that each year, 100% of the graduates are accepted to universities around the world."

    • over 60 clubs and 50 sports to choose from
    • outdoor education program starting in grade 1
    • 7 bands and orchestra's
    • computer animation, graphic design, sculpture classes, ceramics classses

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ST. GEORGE'S SCHOOL

    "St. George’s School knows boys. For nearly 100 years, we have focused our efforts on building the best learning environment for boys to excel both academically and socially. This focus is evident in our teaching and learning approaches that recognize the different ways that boys learn, with emphasis on role models, active movement, and character development.

    In addition, our reputation and history connects our students to a network of mentors and alumni throughout the city and the world that ensures a strong foundation of brotherhood and belonging.

    Finally, thanks to our considerable resources in course options, athletic, and co-curricular experience, we provide an education that is uniquely tailored to each student and a commitment to future-readiness as a modern boys’ school."

    Array

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

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ST. GEORGE'S SCHOOL

    "At St. George’s School, we prioritize collective experiences. We foster a community enriched through shared adventures and discoveries. All students contribute to Arts Week, grade-wide Outdoor Education Trips, and are committed to co-curriculars extending beyond the traditional school day. Personalization requests, like missing parts of the school day, school calendar, or seeking exemptions from community-based activities aren't supported. Even our flagship Varsity sports operate for two out of three terms. This allows athletes time during the ‘off-season’ for self-discovery in new areas. Families enrolling at St. George’s School share a deep belief in the transformative power of collective experiences for boys."

    Array

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

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ST. GEORGE'S SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ST. GEORGE'S SCHOOL

    "Students who thrive at St.George’s School are those who embody our Core Values: Empathy, Humility, Integrity, Respect, Responsibility, and Resilience.

    Boys who are a good match for the school are those who are collaborative and able to work effectively in teams. Creativity is highly valued, so students who are original thinkers and can adapt to various situations thrive in our environment. Additionally, we look for inquisitive minds — students who are curious and eager to explore knowledge deeply and critically. A sense of courage is also essential; we want students who are ready to take on challenges and approach obstacles with resilience and determination.

    All things considered, a good fit for our school is a boy who is ready to make a positive impact and possesses the qualities of collaboration, creativity, curiosity, and courage."

    Array

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

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ST. GEORGE'S SCHOOL

    "One of the many strengths of St. George’s School lies in our breadth of program and the vast array of opportunities that we offer our students. For this reason, a family who is considering our school for a singular or very specific reason may not find what they are looking for. A student who is highly specialized in a sport or program that we do not offer may struggle to connect. We have high expectations of our students to try their best not only in their academics, but also in the larger School community. A successful student at St. George’s School is open to experiencing all that we have to offer, and who is willing to take risks, try new things, and explore. Students who participate and engage in our programming will also find a sense of belonging here quickly. Families who have expectations around routinely pulling their son away from the school day for commitments outside of St. George’s School may find that challenging."

    Array

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

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ST. GEORGE'S SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ST. GEORGE'S SCHOOL

    "When people think of St. George’s School, they often think of boys in uniform. They might picture our castle school, and they are likely aware of the high standards we hold for all that we do, from admissions to academics.

    As the only non-denominational all-boys independent school in Vancouver, in operation for nearly 100 years, the school has a reputation of tradition and prestige. It is known for its location on the westside of the city, near the picturesque forest of Pacific Spirit Park, and down the street from UBC. With this history and place in the city, we know that it also comes with some stereotypes: that the School is exclusive and impossible to get into. The reality is that St. George’s is striving to be a destination for students from all corners of Vancouver, with extensive Financial Assistance, and an admission process that is welcoming and inclusive. We hope for the next 100 years, Saints will continue to be known as the best destination for boys in Vancouver."

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ST. GEORGE'S SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ST. GEORGE'S SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ST. GEORGE'S SCHOOL

    "Recognizing the challenges that adolescents, are facing in a rapidly changing and complex society, St. George’s School is re-doubling its efforts to focus on values and character development — values such as resiliency and responsibility are more important now than ever before.

    Ensuring that students have a wide range of activities to express themselves and build their identity has been a focus for the school for the past several years. Whether this has been through increasing the number of sports activities or the range of clubs, the school is determined to have the largest Co-Curricular program in the city.

    Finally, the accessibility of the school continues to be a focus for the school, an example of this is the school’s commitment to providing expanded financial support. Now all entry grades, with the exception of Kindergarten, are eligible to apply for financial assistance."

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ST. GEORGE'S SCHOOL

    "It is an exciting time at St. George’s School. In the coming years, we are excited to continue evolving and enhancing our educational experience guided by our Mission of “Building Fine Young Men, One Boy At A Time”, and the goals outlined in our Strategic Plan.

    We’re extending learning beyond our campus through bold partnerships in our city and beyond. These collaborations will offer students unique, hands-on learning experiences that connect them with the broader community and global issues.

    Our focus on stewardship means we’ll foster a diverse and inclusive community, helping students appreciate different perspectives. We aim to lead in boys' education by promoting sustainability, innovation, belonging, and future-readiness.

    Finally, our new state-of-the-art senior school buildings opening in 2024 will reflect our commitment to excellence. These modern spaces will provide an inspiring learning environment."

  • 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

    Building Fine Young Men... One Boy at a Time.
     

    At St. George’s, in the words of our Mission, “we build fine young men.” Since 1930, we have provided our students with a challenging and supportive learning environment within which to grow, mature and flourish. Today, research continues to support the values of single-sex education. We now know that young men and women learn differently, and schools that can cater to the unique needs of each gender typically provide more enriching, supportive, and relevant environments for their students. At Saints, our commitment to boys’ education includes a broad and inclusive educational experience reflecting best practices in boys’ learning. Embracing our Vision of being “Canada’s World School for Boys,” we graduate young men with a global outlook who are able and willing to meet the challenges of a complex and rapidly changing world


    As you explore our school page, or if you visit our two beautiful campuses, you will gain a fuller insight into what makes Saints so special. You will see fully engaged and happy students. You also will see dedicated and talented teachers challenging and supporting their students in a curriculum that offers over 50 academic, over 50 athletic, and over 50 club electives between Grades 7 and 12. We are a community that inspires our students to grow in mind, heart, body, and spirit. We are a school in which boys are able to find and pursue their passions.


    We warmly welcome prospective families and are pleased to provide them with personal tours at their convenience. Our goal is always to help you discover whether Saints is the right fit for your son. Come and see for yourself the essence of St. George’s School, not only in our classrooms, but also on our playing fields and in our theatre, gymnasiums, libraries, and dining halls. As you do, you will begin to understand why our graduates love Saints and go on to make remarkable contributions in a broad range of personal and professional endeavours.


    Take a closer look. Come and visit St. George’s School! We look forward to welcoming you to our community.


    Best wishes,


    Dr. Tom Matthews

    Headmaster


    Sine Timore aut Favore (Without Fear or Favour)

  • 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

    ST. GEORGE'S SCHOOL

    Ballet and Classical Ballet
    Yoga
    Yearbook
    Student Council
    Scouting
    Science Club
    School newspaper
    Round Square
    Robotics club
    Radio club
    Poetry/Literature club
    Photography
    Paintball
    Outdoor Education
    Outdoor Club
    Online Magazine
    Musical theatre/Opera
    Math Club
    Jazz Ensemble
    Habitat for Humanity
    Foreign Language Club
    Environmental Club
    Drama Club
    Debate Club
    Dance Club
    Computer Club
    Community Service
    Choir
    Chess Club
    Band
    Audiovisual Club
    Astronomy Club
    Art Club
    Animation


    What the school says

    What the school says

    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!

    ST. GEORGE'S SCHOOL

    • Investment Club
    • Bee Keeping & Organic Gardening
    • Crypto Currency
    • Model United Nations
    • 3D Makers
    • Portfolio Club (Art)
    • Destination Imagination
    • Woodworking
    • Water Polo
    • Curling
    • Rock Climbing
    • Yoga
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    4 - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    8%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $17,500

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    0%

    Day entry years

    1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

    Boarding entry years

    8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Not available

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Feb 01, 2019

    Interview required?

    No

    Yes: grades 1 - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    Yes: grades 4 - 12

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    Yes: grades 6 - 12

    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!

    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 

     

     

    ST. GEORGE'S SCHOOL

    • Online Application Form
    • Report Cards
    • SSAT (PSAT may be used for boarding applicants)
    • Character Skills Snapshot (Gr 6 - 12 only)
    • 45-second video by student
    • Character Reference Form
    • Interview

    Application requirements varied by grade level. For specific details for each grade, please refer to www.stgeorges.bc.ca/admissions

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available

    Alumnus (year)
    Accomplishment

    Conor Trainor (2007)
    Professional Rugby Player / National Men’s XV and Sevens
    Donovan Tidesly (2002)
    Paralympian Swimmer and Flag Bearer for Beijing 2008
    Jay Malinowski (2000)
    award-winning musician, lead singer of Bedouin Soundclash
    Jimmy Vallance (2007)
    Grammy winning duo - Bob Moses
    Tom Howie (2006)
    Grammy Winning Duo - Bob Moses
    John Weston (1976)
    Former Canadian MP
    John McArthur (1991)
    Rhodes Scholar, Public Policies

Compare:

WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  

ST. GEORGE'S SCHOOL:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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