Top News Archives - Rowntree Montessori Schools

2019/03/20 by R.M.S.

Hands On Pizza Fraction Fiesta

“We learn by doing. Brains are wired through hands-on interaction with the physical world.” – Grade 3 RMS Teacher

Acquiring a solid foundation in mathematical concepts at an early age is critical to a child’s future learning and development of Math skills. Some concepts are more easily absorbed than others. The concept of fractions is one that often makes it to the “I don’t get it!” list. Despite their presence in our daily lives, fractions can be a challenging unit for some students to fully comprehend. The use of manipulative material when teaching these concepts is an effective method that has proved to be highly stimulating and thereby successful in helping students of all age groups to absorb and consolidate mathematical concepts.

Recently Grade 3 students at RMS Private School in Brampton engaged in a fun activity of making their own pizza. Seen in the video below is a student preparing her pizza while describing the fractions of toppings that she will use.

These types of learning tasks serve a dual purpose. Firstly, students get to interact with mathematical concepts in a tangible form, while also gaining a clear knowledge of its relevance in the real world. Introducing challenging concepts with familiar everyday items, especially the edible kind, is sure to infuse a zest for Math in students who might fear the subject, and withdraw from it because of a notion of not being able to grasp the theory. Whatever the case may be, the Fraction Pizza Fiesta was more than just a fun and engaging activity. It not only cemented the concept, but it also satisfied the cravings of a class full of pizza lovers!

Grade 3 student learning about fractions as she prepares her personal pizza.

Rowntree Montessori Schools continues to take great strides in its efforts to consistently and conscientiously develop its programs to meet the growing needs of a wide range of learners in a rapidly changing world! For more information about our award-winning programme, contact us at 905-790-3838. We are still accepting applications for September 2019. Apply today!

To learn more about Rowntree Montessori Schools (RMS), continue browsing our website and ideally drop by any of our welcoming, friendly and family oriented campuses for a personal tour anytime Monday-Friday 9:30am-3:00pm. If you prefer, call to book an appointment for a personal tour anytime Monday-Friday 9:30am-3:00pm.

More details about Rowntree Montessori Schools‘ approach to education can be seen by clicking here .

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2019/03/08 by R.M.S.

Math Day Offers Real World Experiences

We recently completed our Annual Math Day, where students had the opportunity to shop at the “Rowntree City Centre.” This was an exciting day for everyone, as students had a fun and rewarding time learning how to budget their finances and organize their spending goals for the day. As the much awaited Math day approached, everyone was excited to see the release of the new “Rowntree Dollar,” designed and printed by students.

The students from Grades 4 to 7 were were responsible for setting up stores and activities throughout the school, while the Grade 8 students took on the responsibility of helping keep the finances tracked and organized. Our Kindergarten to Grade 3 students had the privilege of receiving the Rowntree dollars and participating as shoppers, all while the RMS Leadership Council (RLC) kept the event running smoothly, as they acted as mall security.

$Students purchasinng items at Math Day 2019 at Rowntree Montessori Schools$

Our Grade 8 students did an amazing job of explaining the spending system to our shoppers. Plenty of guidance and advice was offered to the younger students, who excitedly spent their Rowntree Dollars! It was indeed interesting to watch how the students shopped. Some students used all of their money even before their shopping time ended. While other students were more thoughtful and careful in their spending. Some students even borrowed money from their friends to take home gifts for their family members. This shopping extravaganza saw many tired shoppers taking rest in order to re-fuel and re-visit the stores for more amazing bargains!

Math Day was yet another event of reflection, showcasing many of our school values: Dedication, Responsibility, Co-operation, Commitment, Leadership and Unity. Watching our students lead each other, guide each other with such confidence and ease, makes us realize that this is truly a one-of-a-kind student community. The sheer potential of our students never ceases to amaze us! The day ended with a Math Fashion show that everyone enjoyed watching. Take a look at the video below for a quick preview of this enjoayble activity at RMS Academy Campus.

To learn more about Rowntree Montessori Schools (RMS), continue browsing our website and ideally drop by any of our welcoming, friendly and family oriented campuses for a personal tour anytime Monday-Friday 9:30am-3:00pm. If you prefer, call to book an appointment for a personal tour anytime Monday-Friday 9:30am-3:00pm.

More details about Rowntree Montessori Schools‘ approach to education can be seen by clicking here .

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2019/02/28 by R.M.S.

Stopping Bullying on Pink Day

In recognition of Anti-Bullying Day on February 28th, the RMS community wore pink. Pink symbolizes caring, tenderness, acceptance and calmness. National Pink Shirt Day was inspired by students from a high school in Halifax, NS. David Shepherd, Travis Price and their teenage friends organized a high-school protest to wear pink in sympathy for a Grade 9 boy who was being bullied for wearing a pink shirt. They took a stand against bullying when they protested against the harassment of this student by distributing pink t-shirts to all the boys in their school. For more information on this initiative, click here. This practice of not tolerating bullying has now become wide spread in schools, and at RMS as a community we are coming together to celebrate inclusiveness and acceptance of the things that make us unique, while connecting us at the same time. We are continuing to reinforce the positive messages of the WITS program that was introduced in the Fall of last year. The WITS program brings together schools, families and communities to create safe, responsive environments that help elementary school children deal with bullying. Our teachers are encouraged to review the messages of the WITS Anti-Bully Campaign, to talk about what acceptance looks like inside and outside of school, and to take pictures and to play fun games that engage students in creative role-play in the classroom, all while learning about bullying prevention.

At Rowntree Montessori Schools, bullying of any kind is not acceptable. We know that bullying is defined as repeated or habitual aggressive behaviour, abuse or intimidation of a person, because the person or persons bullying have more power or advantage (based on any number of factors such as size, status, age, being part of a group, abilities, or other attributes). We make sure that our students are very aware of why bullying is not acceptable, and we help our students understand what bullying is and what it is not. We make an effort to empower and encourage students to act responsibly to create a positive environment in our school and be proactive in stopping and reporting bullying should it occur. It is not just on Pink Day that we encourage anti-bullying. At RMS, we follow the WITS Anti-Bullying Program that includes many activities for students that reinforce the importance of making positive choices all year long. We encourage all teachers, administration and support staff to actively create a safe learning community where children can thrive and model behaviours that support tolerance, cooperation and understanding.

According to the Government of Canada, “all adults – including parents – should talk openly about bullying with the children in their care, and should be prepared to deal directly with any problems that arise, whether at school, among groups of friends, or in other social situations.” For more information on how to recognize signs of bullying and for tips on intervention, click here. For more information on preventing cyber bullying, click here and find out how to get “CyberSafe.”

To learn more about Rowntree Montessori Schools (RMS), continue browsing our website and ideally drop by any of our welcoming, friendly and family oriented campuses for a personal tour anytime Monday-Friday 9:30am-3:00pm. If you prefer, call to book an appointment for a personal tour anytime Monday-Friday 9:30am-3:00pm.

More details about Rowntree Montessori Schools‘ approach to education can be seen by clicking here .

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2019/02/26 by R.M.S.

Mastering the Respiratory System in Prep-ONE (SK) Science

The human body is one of the most fascinating topics to learn about! Recently our Prep-ONE (SK) students learned about how the different systems work together to keep the human body functioning. In the process of learning about the various systems, we reviewed some informative resources, which included non-fiction books, models of the human body, as well as posters from our Montessori materials. Additionally, through the use of the interactive online activities, our Prep-ONE students learned about the concept of separate components working together to build a body system.

The video above shows our Prep-ONE class discussing the Respiratory System. In this lesson, our students learned about how the Respiratory System allows us to take in vital oxygen and expel carbon dioxide in a process we call breathing. It consists mainly of the nose/mouth, trachea, bronchial tubes, lungs, and the diaphragm. The purpose of teaching these systems is to help our young students understand that the different systems within the body work independently and together to form a functioning human body. They absolutely loved this topic, as you can see from their eagerness to get involved in the conversation.

Prep-ONE students at the Central Park campus working on an activity about the human respiratory system

Students putting together models of the Respiratory System

Research indicates that young children who are taught using hands-on teaching methods do better in school than those who are not. As a result, we used many different hands-on activities to learn about the systems of the body. This was not only informative, but also very fun and engaging for students. In the picture above you can see how students created a three-dimensional project using recycled materials such as yarn, pipe cleaners, and scraps of paper to create the Respiratory System of the human body. Through this activity, our students learned various skills, which included (but were not limited to): control, communication, concentration, problem solving skills and dedication to finishing tasks. As Albert Einstein once said, “I never teach my pupils, I only provide the conditions in which they can learn.”

To learn more about Rowntree Montessori Schools (RMS), continue browsing our website and ideally drop by any of our welcoming, friendly and family oriented campuses for a personal tour anytime Monday-Friday 9:30am-3:00pm. If you prefer, call to book an appointment for a personal tour anytime Monday-Friday 9:30am-3:00pm.

More details about Rowntree Montessori Schools‘ approach to education can be seen by clicking here .

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2019/02/20 by R.M.S.

Learning through Performance

Recently the students at the Academy Campus from Kindergarten Montessori to Grade 4 had the privilege of watching a live performance of the Paper Bag Princess, a much-loved story by Canadian children’s author Robert Munsch. This spellbinding production was brought to the school by the “To Be Determined Theatre Company.” This group that has been touring youth focused theatre in Ontario, for the last eight years.

The production embodies the message of Grit, Teamwork, Kindness and Patience. Some of these values are fast diminishing from today’s society, and this production surely delivered these valuable messages. For example, through the kidnapping of Prince Ronald, who Elizabeth and Emily really cared for they realize that putting aside their differences and working together was the only way to free Ronald from the dungeon. Through their journey they learned to be empathetic, kind and patient with each other.

Instilling these morals at a young age is one of many responsibilities that we as adults, parents and educators have in our fast-paced, ever-changing world. Finding interesting ways to inculcate these morals ensures that students will embrace these morals. This fascinating theatrical production of the Paper Bag Princess most certainly succeeded in bringing these moral values out loud and clear, leaving our students absolutely mesmerized! Plus we are now celebrating the Festival of the Arts, so learning values through performance is perfectly in line with what we are celebrating this week.

To learn more about Rowntree Montessori Schools (RMS), continue browsing our website and ideally drop by any of our welcoming, friendly and family oriented campuses for a personal tour anytime Monday-Friday 9:30am-3:00pm. If you prefer, call to book an appointment for a personal tour anytime Monday-Friday 9:30am-3:00pm.

More details about Rowntree Montessori Schools‘ approach to education can be seen by clicking here .

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2019/02/17 by R.M.S.

Robotics for Young Children

How are Kindergarten Students Learning about Robotics and How to Code at RMS?

At Rowntree Montessori Schools, our students start learning about Coding and Robotics as early as the age of three and a half years old in our Pre-Kindergarten Montessori classes. Students can begin to understand the basics of Coding and Robotics using unplugged coding materials, such as figurines (that represent robots), cards and grids (on which they will execute the various coding instructions). In the example pictured below, our students face the challenge of navigating the dinosaur “robot” from one place to another, while avoiding pitfalls such as snakes and other barriers. This type of activity teaches and reinforces computational thinking, such that our students learn to approach the problem (getting the dinosaur safely “home”). It is not simply a matter of getting the dinosaur “robot” from A to B, the students must break down and “code” each step within the solution.

Once students understand the basics of coding, they can more easily transfer their knowledge and skills to a combination of tablets, specialized coding apps and our Dash & Dot robots. That might involve the same size grids as pictured above, smaller versions of it or much larger taped versions which can take up almost the entirety of a classroom floor. Students are presented with increasingly complex challenges that require more sophisticated solutions which can involve not only directional commands, but also the blinking of lights and commanding their robots to speak.

Beyond computational thinking and the acquisition of basic digital literacy, coding and robotics in our younger grades promote collaborative skills and help nurture resilience among our students. From the most basic unplugged coding task to the solving of more difficult Dash & Dot challenges, our students are presented with difficult material that often requires extensive trial and error to master. Coding and robotics can be fun and exciting, but it can also be challenging and frustrating. We believe that success on difficult tasks leads to deep and more meaningful learning. It is predicted that many future jobs will require strong problem-solving skills and a resilient attitude. Learning the fundamentals of computational thinking and sequential thinking from coding and Robotics starting at a young age is a great way to give our students a head start. The students pictured below had just solved a complex Dash & Dot challenge. Their excitement was the result of having worked collaboratively to solve a complex and difficult task. At RMS, we aim to cultivate such moments through the application of rigorous academics which are delivered in a nurturing and supportive environment.

To learn more about Rowntree Montessori Schools (RMS), continue browsing our website and ideally drop by any of our welcoming, friendly and family oriented campuses for a personal tour anytime Monday-Friday 9:30am-3:00pm. If you prefer, call to book an appointment for a personal tour anytime Monday-Friday 9:30am-3:00pm.

More details about Rowntree Montessori Schools‘ approach to education can be seen by clicking here .

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2019/02/07 by R.M.S.

Putting French Into Action

At RMS, French education plays a very important role in preparing students for successful careers. Not only do we teach French at all levels, starting from Pre-Kindergarten Montessori, but we also expose our students to many activities where they get to explore the value of learning French. Our French department has recently been busy preparing for the annual French Carnival, “Le Carnaval de Rowntree.” Today both students and staff enjoyed many activities that helped expose our private school students to the French language and French culture, from creating French crafts, to French computers, to learning a new dance with the bonhomme (snowman) as seen in the image below.

There are many activities at RMS where students learn French to master the skills in each of the four interconnected strands: Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing. For example, along with being a fun activity, role playing allows students to not only act out real life roles but to build confidence and improve their communication skills. Role playing is a great resource when teaching a second language. Grade 1 students at the Academy Campus are currently working on a French project called “Prof du Jour”. Students are very excited to take turns to be the “Teacher of the Day.” This activity allows students to practice French in conversational situations and interact with their peers in a second language. Students have the opportunity to apply basic French greetings when starting the day and complete daily routines such as reviewing the calendar with the days, months and the type of weather in French. It is a valuable class experience where students really enjoy using the French language.

Bon travail, les enfants!

To learn more about Rowntree Montessori Schools (RMS), continue browsing our website and ideally drop by any of our welcoming, friendly and family oriented campuses for a personal tour anytime Monday-Friday 9:30am-3:00pm. If you prefer, call to book an appointment for a personal tour anytime Monday-Friday 9:30am-3:00pm.

More details about Rowntree Montessori Schools‘ approach to education can be seen by clicking here .

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2019/01/28 by R.M.S.

RMS Wins Top Choice Award for 5th Consecutive Year

We are pleased to announce that RMS has been voted as the Top Private School in Brampton for the fifth consecutive year by the residents of Brampton and surrounding area consumers through Top Choice Magazine. During an open-ended nomination process that started in November 2018, residents of Brampton were asked to nominate their favourite private school for this prestigious mark of excellence award. RMS would like to extend a warm thank you to all families who supported us again this year. It is our privilege to teach such wonderful students and work with so many caring families.

We look forward to seeing you and sharing with you the private school community of which we are so proud!

To learn more about Rowntree Montessori Schools (RMS), continue browsing our website and ideally drop by any of our welcoming, friendly and family oriented campuses for a personal tour anytime Monday-Friday 9:30am-3:00pm. If you prefer, call to book an appointment for a personal tour anytime Monday-Friday 9:30am-3:00pm.

More details about Rowntree Montessori Schools‘ approach to education can be seen by clicking here .

Please kindly SHARE this post with others by clicking onto one or more of the icons below. We would appreciate it and thank you in advance.

2019/01/22 by R.M.S.

Apply for Kindergarten Today!

Now accepting NEW student applications for Pre-Kindergarten Montessori and Kindergarten Montessori (JK) for the 2019-2020 Academic Year starting in September 2019!

If you have a child who was born in 2016 or 2015 and would like to submit an application to Rowntree Montessori Schools for the 2019-2020 academic year (starting in September 2019), please do not wait until it is too late! We are now officially reviewing applications for acceptance to Pre-Kindergarten Montessori and Kindergarten Montessori (JK).

Students in Kindergarten Montessori at Rowntree Montessori Schools

Students in Kindergarten Montessori (JK) at Rowntree Montessori Schools

Click on the Apply Now button below to quickly and easily submit your application, and someone from our Admissions Office will be in touch with you shortly. If you would like to talk with someone from our Admissions Office, please click here to review the contact information for each campus.

To learn more about Rowntree Montessori Schools’ admission process, click here.

If you have not done so already, we also encourage you to visit one of our campuses. Discover the opportunity and possibilities for your child to love learning and excel.

We will gladly take the time with you and your family to:

Tour the facilities (typically takes 15-20 minutes)
Provide you the opportunity to meet teachers and administrators
Outline our enriched educational programmes – Pre-Kindergarten (2.8 yrs) to Grade 8
Discuss registration options

…and of course, children are most welcome.

Private school students in Kindergarten working on Montessori materials at RMS

Students in Kindergarten Montessori (JK) learning to count

We look forward to seeing you and sharing with you the private school community of which we are so proud!

To learn more about Rowntree Montessori Schools (RMS), continue browsing our website and ideally drop by any of our welcoming, friendly and family oriented campuses for a personal tour anytime Monday-Friday 9:30am-3:00pm. If you prefer, call to book an appointment for a personal tour anytime Monday-Friday 9:30am-3:00pm.

More details about Rowntree Montessori Schools‘ approach to education can be seen by clicking here .

Please kindly SHARE this post with others by clicking onto one or more of the icons below. We would appreciate it and thank you in advance.

2019/01/22 by R.M.S.

Register Online for Summer Learning Camp

Register online today for our Summer Learning Camps for this upcoming Tuesday July 2nd to Friday August 23rd, 2019! We offer Kindergarten Montessori Readiness (children turning 4 in 2019), Prep-One Readiness (children turning 5 in 2019), Grade 1 Readiness (children turning 6 years old in 2019), a Grade 2-8 Math and English Enrichment and Remedial Educational Programmes. Our summer programmes are specially designed to allow students to continue school throughout the summer months and to get a head start for the upcoming year, while enjoying fun and exciting activities and outings. Dedicated, caring, and qualified teachers and instructors will conduct a wide variety of activities that will complement and enhance your child’s academic needs and address their extracurricular preferences. Camps are offered in safe environments with morning academics and afternoon fun theme-based activities, water play, outdoor games, sports, workshops and field trips to splash pads, water parks, the movies, trampoline parks and more, depending on the weeks that the child is registered. All activities will coincide with a planned weekly theme. Parents will be given a calendar outlining the weekly events scheduled throughout the summer.

To learn more about our summer learning camps and weekly themes/fun afternoon activities and outings, click here.

To directly register online for summer learning camp, click here.

For answers to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding our Summer Learning Camp, click here.

To learn more about Rowntree Montessori Schools (RMS), continue browsing our website and ideally drop by any of our welcoming, friendly and family oriented campuses for a personal tour anytime Monday-Friday 9:30am-3:00pm. If you prefer, call to book an appointment for a personal tour anytime Monday-Friday 9:30am-3:00pm.

More details about Rowntree Montessori Schools‘ approach to education can be seen by clicking here .