Understanding Montessori
Why Montessori?
A time-tested approach to education, backed by global accreditation and over a century of proven outcomes.
The Montessori Difference
A Deeper Approach
to Early Learning
Choosing the right educational foundation for your child is one of the most meaningful decisions a family can make. Montessori education is a scientifically grounded approach that develops the whole child — intellectually, socially, emotionally, and physically — through carefully prepared environments and individualized learning.
As the oldest Montessori school in downtown Vancouver, we are proud to be participating in AMI's Montessori Quality Assurance (MQA) programme, working to ensure every aspect of our program reflects the highest standards of authentic Montessori education.
AMI Standards
Participating in AMI's MQA programme — the global standard for authentic Montessori education
Boutique & Safe
Small class sizes with high adult-to-child ratios for personalized attention
Proven Outcomes
Over 100 years of research supporting academic and social-emotional development
Whole Child
Developing confidence, independence, focus, and a lifelong love of learning
Our Commitment to Standards
Our Approach
AMI Accreditation (MQA)
The Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) was founded by Dr. Maria Montessori in 1929 to safeguard the integrity of her educational approach. We are participating in AMI's Montessori Quality Assurance programme, one of only seven schools in BC.
We encourage all families to ask about accreditation and teacher training when exploring Montessori programmes — it's a great way to understand each school's commitment.
MQA Standards
Montessori Quality Assurance (MQA) provides an additional layer of accountability, evaluating prepared environments, curriculum implementation, and educator qualifications against rigorous benchmarks.
Our commitment to both AMI and MQA standards places us among schools dedicated to the highest standard of Montessori education.
Vancouver's Heritage
As the oldest Montessori school in downtown Vancouver, Lions Gate carries a legacy of authentic Montessori education. Our urban campus serves families from across the city, including members of the diplomatic and consulate community who seek a trusted, intimate educational environment.
Our boutique size means higher safety, deeper relationships, and a community that feels like family.
Beyond Montessori
Preparing Children for Life
Research consistently shows that Montessori graduates develop strong confidence, focus, and a genuine receptiveness to new knowledge that serves them well in any setting.
94%
of Montessori graduates report feeling well-prepared for higher education
3×
more likely to demonstrate advanced social-emotional skills
78%
of Montessori alumni describe themselves as self-directed learners
Top 15%
Montessori students consistently score in standardized assessments
The Transition to Traditional Schools
One of the most common concerns parents have is whether their child will struggle when transitioning from a Montessori environment to a traditional school. Research and our own alumni outcomes consistently demonstrate the opposite.
Montessori children develop strong executive function skills — the ability to plan, organize, manage time, and self-regulate. These are the very skills that predict academic success in any educational setting. They learn to learn, not just to perform.
"The child who concentrates is immensely happy." — Dr. Maria Montessori
Common Questions
Myths & Realities
"How do Montessori children adjust when they move to other schools?"
Research consistently shows Montessori graduates transition successfully to a variety of school settings. They develop strong executive function, self-regulation, and intrinsic motivation — skills that serve them well in any educational environment.
"Montessori is just 'free play' with no structure."
Montessori environments are meticulously structured. Every material has a specific purpose and sequence. Children have freedom within carefully designed limits, developing discipline through meaningful choice — not chaos.
"Any school can call itself 'Montessori' — there's no quality standard."
Standards do matter, and we welcome the conversation. We are participating in AMI's Montessori Quality Assurance (MQA) programme — one of only seven schools in British Columbia working to meet the rigorous global standards established by Dr. Maria Montessori herself. We encourage all families to ask about accreditation and training when exploring any Montessori programme.
"It doesn't matter which early learning program you choose — they're all the same."
Every family's needs are different, and there are many excellent early learning options available in British Columbia. What makes Montessori distinctive is its specific educational philosophy: AMI-trained guides, scientifically designed materials, mixed-age classrooms, and individualized learning plans that follow the child's development. For families drawn to this approach, we are proud to be among only seven schools in BC participating in AMI's Montessori Quality Assurance program.
Learn With Us
Webinars &
Educational Content
We believe that understanding Montessori education is the first step to appreciating its value. That's why we host regular webinars and publish weekly educational content to help parents make informed decisions about their children's education.
From understanding the prepared environment to navigating school transitions, our content is designed to build trust and empower families.
Understanding the Prepared Environment
Montessori at Home: Practical Tips for Parents
Transitioning from Montessori to Traditional School
See the Difference for Yourself
The best way to understand Montessori is to experience it. Schedule a private tour and observe our prepared environments in action.
SCHEDULE A TOUR