Edmonton Montessori School
Edmonton Montessori School: Nurturing Independent Learners in 2025
Introduction
Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most significant decisions a parent can make. For families in Alberta’s capital, Edmonton Montessori School (EMS) offers a distinctive and proven approach to education that has been transforming young learners for decades. Rooted in the philosophy developed by Dr. Maria Montessori over a century ago, EMS focuses on fostering independence, creativity, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of learning.
In this comprehensive guide, we explore everything you need to know about Edmonton Montessori School in 2025 — its philosophy, programs, admission process, campus life, and why it remains one of the most respected Montessori schools in Edmonton.
The Montessori Philosophy
Before diving into the specifics of EMS, it’s important to understand what sets Montessori education apart.
Dr. Maria Montessori, Italy’s first female physician, developed an educational method based on careful observation of children's natural learning processes. Montessori education emphasizes:
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Child-centered learning: Children are active participants in their own learning.
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Prepared environment: Classrooms are designed to facilitate independent exploration.
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Hands-on materials: Learning is tactile and interactive.
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Mixed-age classrooms: Older and younger students learn from and support one another.
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Intrinsic motivation: Students learn because they are curious, not because of rewards or punishments.
Montessori graduates are often recognized for their confidence, self-discipline, creativity, and academic achievement — qualities that are highly valued in today’s rapidly changing world.
Overview of Edmonton Montessori School
Quick Facts: Edmonton Montessori School
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Location: Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Established: 1980s
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Age Range: 18 months to 12 years (Toddler to Grade 6)
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Curriculum: Montessori method blended with Alberta Education standards
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Class Size: Small, with low student-to-teacher ratios
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Language of Instruction: English (with French enrichment)
EMS is one of the longest-standing and most trusted Montessori schools in Edmonton, dedicated to the authentic implementation of Montessori principles while integrating the Alberta curriculum.
Mission and Vision
Mission Statement:
To foster a nurturing, engaging environment where children develop academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually through the principles of Montessori education.
Vision:
To empower students to become independent, confident, and compassionate citizens who are prepared for success in a dynamic world.
Programs Offered
Edmonton Montessori School offers a comprehensive range of programs that span the early years through elementary education.
1. Toddler Program (18 months – 3 years)
The Toddler program provides a gentle introduction to structured learning:
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Focus on independence (dressing, feeding, toileting)
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Language development
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Fine and gross motor skills
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Sensory activities
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Social-emotional learning
Children build the foundation for future academic and personal growth in a loving, prepared environment.
2. Casa Program (Preschool and Kindergarten, ages 3–6)
The Casa (Italian for “home”) classrooms are vibrant, engaging spaces where children explore:
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Practical Life Skills (pouring, cleaning, cooking)
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Sensorial Education (color, shape, texture exploration)
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Language (phonetic awareness, reading, writing)
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Mathematics (numbers, operations, geometry)
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Cultural Studies (geography, science, arts)
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French as a second language
This three-year cycle culminates in Kindergarten readiness, where students often read, write, and perform complex math at an advanced level.
3. Lower Elementary (Grades 1–3, ages 6–9)
The Lower Elementary program builds on the foundation of Casa:
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Advanced math (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division)
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Language (reading comprehension, creative writing, grammar)
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Science (biology, earth sciences, simple physics)
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Social Studies (history, geography, cultures)
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Art, music, and physical education
Emphasis is placed on research projects, fostering independent inquiry and love of learning.
4. Upper Elementary (Grades 4–6, ages 9–12)
In Upper Elementary, students prepare for the transition to middle school:
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Abstract mathematics (fractions, decimals, pre-algebra)
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Literary analysis and critical essays
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Advanced research and presentations
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Physics, chemistry, and environmental science
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Canadian history and civics
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Leadership opportunities and community service projects
The goal is to produce responsible, self-motivated learners who are ready to excel in any educational environment.
The Montessori Classroom: Edmonton Montessori School
At EMS, each classroom is:
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Student-centered: Children move freely, choosing their work based on interest.
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Beautifully prepared: Materials are arranged attractively and systematically.
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Multi-age: Older students mentor younger ones.
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Guided by observation: Teachers (called "guides") carefully observe to support individual learning journeys.
Instead of rigid desks, children work at tables, on mats, or at specialized learning stations, promoting comfort, focus, and collaboration.
Unique Features of EMS
1. Authentic Montessori Approach
All lead teachers are Montessori-certified, ensuring that EMS maintains the integrity of Montessori education, not just its aesthetics.
2. Integration with Alberta Curriculum
Students meet and often exceed Alberta Education standards while benefiting from Montessori methods.
3. Outdoor Learning
Regular outdoor education sessions, including nature walks, science experiments, and gardening, are integral to the curriculum.
4. French Enrichment
Starting in Casa, children receive weekly French instruction, preparing them for bilingual opportunities.
5. Peace Education
Students learn conflict resolution, mindfulness, and global citizenship, cultivating empathy and emotional intelligence.
Campus Facilities: Edmonton Montessori School
Edmonton Montessori School is designed with children's needs at the forefront:
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Spacious, light-filled classrooms
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Well-equipped Montessori materials
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Library and reading nooks
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Outdoor playgrounds and gardens
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Science lab for elementary students
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Music and art studios
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Secure access and CCTV security
In 2025, EMS continues to upgrade its facilities with sustainable practices, including energy-efficient systems and expanded green spaces.
Technology in Learning
While traditional Montessori emphasizes hands-on learning, EMS thoughtfully incorporates technology where appropriate:
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Elementary students use laptops for research and writing
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Smartboards support group instruction
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Online resources complement physical materials
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Coding and robotics introduced at Upper Elementary level
Technology at EMS is always a tool, never a replacement for authentic engagement.
Extracurricular Activities: Edmonton Montessori School
EMS offers a variety of extracurricular programs to enrich student life:
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Art Club
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Soccer and Basketball teams
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Robotics Club
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Gardening Club
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Drama Productions
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Chess Club
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Music Ensembles (choir, recorder, ukulele)
These activities help students explore passions, develop talents, and build community spirit.
Community Involvement
One of EMS’s hallmarks is its strong sense of community:
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Family events (picnics, performances, workshops)
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Parent Education Nights (learning about Montessori philosophy)
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Volunteer opportunities
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Community service projects (food drives, environmental initiatives)
Parents are partners in the educational journey, and their participation is encouraged and valued.
Admission Process: Edmonton Montessori School
Steps to Apply:
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Attend an Information Session: Learn about the Montessori method and EMS’s approach.
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Schedule a Tour: Visit classrooms and meet staff.
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Submit an Application: Includes student records and questionnaires.
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Student Observation/Assessment: Short visit to assess readiness (especially for older students).
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Interview: Parents meet with the administration.
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Admission Decision: Families are notified, and enrollment is finalized.
Key Dates:
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Applications open: November
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Priority enrollment deadline: February
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Rolling admissions thereafter, depending on availability
Because of high demand, early application is strongly recommended.
Tuition and Financial Aid (2025)
| Program | Annual Tuition (Approx.) |
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| Toddler Program | $10,000 – $11,500 |
| Casa Program | $12,000 – $13,500 |
| Elementary | $14,000 – $16,000 |
Additional fees may include registration, materials, field trips, and extracurriculars.
EMS offers limited financial aid based on family need and available funds.
Success Stories
EMS graduates consistently excel in Edmonton’s top private and public schools, often entering accelerated or honors programs. Alumni are known for their:
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Academic excellence
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Leadership and initiative
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Problem-solving abilities
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Strong communication and collaboration skills
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Deep-rooted sense of ethics and service
Many EMS alumni continue to advocate for causes ranging from environmental sustainability to social justice.
Why Choose Edmonton Montessori School?
Choosing EMS means investing in a child's full potential — academically, emotionally, and socially.
Conclusion
Edmonton Montessori School offers a transformative educational experience, where children are respected as individuals and empowered to become capable, curious, and compassionate learners.
In a rapidly changing world, the timeless values and skills cultivated at EMS are more relevant than ever. If you are seeking a nurturing, rigorous, and joyful educational environment, Edmonton Montessori School may be the perfect place for your child to grow and thrive.
In case, if you need help with Homestay and Custodianship for students in order to study in Edmonton Montessori School or other schools in Canada, please fill in application below or contact us directly.
