All classroom teaching staff are Montessori trained for their level. Some specialists, such as Music or Physical Education teachers, may not be Montessori trained but we work together to ensure that their methods follow the same philosophy. In addition, elementary Directresses have their B.C. Certification or Independent School Certification from the BC government; Primary Directresses have their Early Childhood Education; Babycare Supervisors have their infant/toddler certification. Most staff members have been with us for more than five years, some over 15 years!

How many children in a class?

At the Primary level, there are up to 20 children, with two teachers; at the elementary level, there are up to 25 (although it might go a bit higher if the class is very settled) with two teachers. The students receive a great deal of one-on-one teaching.

Do you teach religion or are you affiliated with any particular religion?

There is no specific religious teaching. We do, however, learn about all the major religions, with a view to respecting their teachings and celebrating our differences. There is a strong spiritual component to the school, based on the idea that there is more to life than what is perceived through the physical senses. We follow closely the views of Aline Wolf, in her book Nurturing Spirituality in the non-sectarian classroom, which is available in our parent library or from Parent Press.

What about homework?

As with all our learning, we allow the children to lead as much as possible. We try not to assign specific homework, but do require the students to do something constructive each evening, whether it's creative writing, baking, gardening, a science experiment or perhaps practicing an instrument. Their activity is recorded on their weekly checklist as part of their goals completion.

How do your students do when they move to other schools?

We believe that every year in a Montessori school enables children to better handle whatever comes next. Of course they benefit the most from completing each three-year cycle in our school. If it is necessary to move, it depends on the new situation. Academically, our students usually do very well, either at the elementary or secondary level. Many of our graduates are on honor rolls in their various secondary schools. But more important, they work well independently, with good organizational and study skills, have a strong ethical base and positive social skills, along with a wide interest in learning.

What about safety?

In very general terms, we teach the students how to handle potentially dangerous situations, rather than avoiding them. For example, the primary children learn how to handle knives and matches, the older ones practice biking and canoeing. For more details, refer to "Safety" under "Policies".

What if I change my mind once I have registered?

On registration you pay a non-refundable registration fee. At the Primary level, one month's notice is required for withdrawal.  There is not normally any refund at the elementary or secondary level.