Montessori Learning Centre of Pickering

In 1907 Dr. Maria Montessori, Italy’s first female physician and graduate, introduced a revolutionary approach towards the way children are educated. Through years of observation and scientific study, she created a system that looked at the development of the entire child. She believed that all children possess an intellectual and creative potential, an internal desire to learn and the ability to direct themselves in this learning. Montessori will offer you, without question, the most scientifically prepared academic environment you will encounter. Balancing this, however, is a community environment filled with heart. The children enjoy an interesting, interactive setting where they will be challenged and stimulated, but also share as much physical comfort and support as needed.

In classrooms rich with Montessori materials, children are grouped together in three-year age spans, where they have the ability to learn the role of mentee and then mentor. Montessori is an individualized approach to education that helps each child reach full potential in all areas of life. It is student-centered and encourages creativity and curiosity, which leads children to ask questions, explore, investigate and think for themselves. Montessori students develop creativity and confidence, critical thinking, problem solving skills and a positive, collaborative attitude — all skills that provide a solid foundation for later years.

In this ever-changing and demanding lifestyle, care for your children is of prime importance. MLCP understands your concerns and commits to helping you feel safe and secure in the knowledge that your children are receiving quality care, respect, guidance and academic instruction during their day.

With over 30 years of experience, our school is not just a form of daycare - our Montessori method is designed to support each child to become a well-rounded, responsible and self-reliant individual who will demonstrate a love of learning, self-confidence and sense of fair play throughout life. Our dedicated and nurturing staff work with students on an individual basis, understanding and learning their needs and guiding them towards achieving their potential.

The Montessori Learning Centre was established in 1984 and was the first Montessori school in the Pickering area. We are a non-denominational school, owned and operated by a Montessori Directress. The school opened with 25 students and has grown to an operating capacity of 200.

The school operates with Montessori's philosophies and theories and a full range of her materials through to the end of grade 6. Grade 7 and 8 students usually work in advance of the Ontario School Curriculum and have upper level Montessori materials available for support.

Our Montessori Method is designed to support each child to become a well-rounded, responsible and self-reliant individual who will demonstrate a love of learning, self-confidence and sense of fair play throughout life. The Montessori Method functions without the confines of a traditionally structured classroom. Each child has rights and each has responsibilities.

While the Ontario School Curriculum is on hand at all times, the philosophy of children working at their "ability level" as opposed to "age level" is predominant throughout MLCP. Children are placed within each classroom at their level of ability and for each subject, material is presented as appropriate for advancement or reinforcement. Students, then, could be working at different levels in different subjects.

Montessori - as an alternative method of education is able to offer an individualized learning environment with a lower staff/student ratio. Generally, students are producing at a commendable level throughout their academic years, especially those with a long term Montessori history.

Along with the academic expectations, students are encouraged to develop a good moral base, established study habits and both organizational and production levels of a high standard. Students ages 3 and up engage in the study of language, math and an all encompassing cultural programme. Cultural presentations include studies of natural sciences, geography, history, art, with physical science and chemistry introduced at the older levels. All students receive daily French classes and weekly Music and Physical Education classes. Apart from the basic curriculum, the Elementary students, Grades 1 to 8, are introduced to weekly Computer, Art, Civics, Home Economics and library visits. Elementary students are tested bi-annually to gauge areas of strength.

In their eighth year, the last of Upper Elementary, students embark on year long activities. Here, they integrate the research and academic skills that they have acquired throughout their previous Elementary years. At this level grade 7 and 8 students are often responsible for the presentation of religious or cultural celebrations to the younger student body. Creative expression is crucial in a Montessori education. To help nurture their creativity, The Elementary Art Programme offers children the ability to experiment with different techniques and mediums through direct instruction and hands-on practice. This experience helps students appreciate each medium’s unique qualities and exposes children to various artists, movements and periods using games and critiques.

Movement and gymnastics, cooperative games, teamwork, and athletics are the focus of the physical education program for Casa and Elementary students. Each child has an opportunity to grow and excel as an individual and as a member of a team through a variety of games and athletic activities. MLCP is actively involved in many interschool events and competitions. Skiing and skating are part of each year's winter sports calendar.