Frequently Asked Questions
At Angus Valley Montessori Schools, our aim is to share answers to common questions asked by parents we meet along the way. If you don’t see the answer you need below, please get in touch with us to ask.
Do you have space available for my child?
Each AVMS location manages its own enrolment, so we suggest you enquire at the specific school you are applying to. However, we do have a waitlist policy. Children on the waiting list will be accepted into the age-appropriate program on a first-come, first-served basis, as space becomes available. We do not request a fee or deposit to have your child placed on a waiting list.
What are the tuition fees?
Tuition fees are not posted. We invite you to contact the specific location and ask for the Supervisor or visit the school for information.
What are the School’s hours?
We are open Monday to Friday; teaching hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Before and after care is offered, for details contact the school you are interested in enrolling with.
Do you offer special meals for dietary restrictions or allergies?
We are peanut/nut free schools. Any food brought into the school must be nut-free and packaged food must have the label of ingredients.
Our recipes have been specifically by Chef Russo for AVMS’ exclusive use. Weekly menus are planned to meet children’s nutritional needs based on Canada’s Food Guide, the Day Nurseries Act, and our Chef’s guidelines. We aim to accommodate special diets and food restrictions. Meals and snacks are prepared fresh daily in our on-site kitchen. Menus are posted for parents to view.
What is the Teacher-to-Child ratio at Angus Valley?
In accordance with the Child Care and Early Years Act, 2014 (CCEYA) and Ontario Regulation 137/15, every operator of a day nursery shall ensure that a minimum number of staff members are available for certain age groups.
Teachers are required to maintain Student-Teacher Ratios based on the Ministry of Education Child Care and Assurance Licensing Act.
The Teacher-to-Student ratio(s) are as follows:
- Infant Ratios 1:3
- Toddlers 1:5
- Pre-school 1:8
- School Age 1:10
What qualifications do your staff hold?
We are committed to hiring qualified teachers who are offered training and fair compensation. Our non-discriminatory hiring practices provide individuals of all backgrounds the opportunity for employment.
Teachers have ECE diploma and/ or are Montessori Trained MACTE certified teachers. All teachers attend mandatory professional meetings and are committed to continuous professional learning.
Will my child go outside every day?
At every location, we have age-appropriate outdoor playgrounds for the exclusive use of the school. Children require weather appropriate clothing, each season. Structured and free play occurs daily. Indoor activities are planned in inclement weather such as extreme cold and extreme heat conditions.
How is illness managed in your school?
Prior to their child starting at AVMS, parents of registered children receive a Parent Handbook which provides details about our policies regarding all manner of operations. Our policy regarding unwell children is detailed in this document.
In summary, children who are ill should not be brought to the school, for their own benefit as well as that of our other children. Daily activity is too demanding to accommodate an ill child. Young children are still building up their immune systems.
Can I tour the school?
We encourage you to visit the location you are considering, or if that school is not yet built, choose any location that is convenient. For security reasons, we require visitors to schedule an appointment to tour the school. Most tours are offered on weekdays between 9:00am and 11:30am.
How will you prepare my child for Grade One or Elementary School?
Angus Valley Montessori Schools are dedicated to supporting children’s learning, development, health and well-being through caring and responsive Childhood Educators. Our teaching methods focus on active learning, exploration, and inquiry by applying the Montessori Philosophy. We see children as capable achievers and encourage families to become active participants in all aspects of the program.
As children advance through our classrooms, at each stage they are provided the learning foundations to support their success in the next level. Our Casa graduates are well equipped to excel in their early elementary school years.
Can I transfer my child to another AVMS location?
Yes, based upon the new location’s availability. A completed transfer application will be required. Two months notice is also required.
