MIDDLE SCHOOL
Leadership, Self-Awareness, Academic Readiness For Students in Grades 7–8
The Middle School Program at Uxbridge Montessori School offers a transformative learning experience for students in Grades 7 and 8, designed to meet the unique needs of early adolescence. Blending authentic Montessori principles with the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum, this program equips students with the academic rigor, personal resilience, and real-world skills needed for success in high school—and beyond.
Students at this stage are ready to stretch intellectually, explore personal identity, and engage meaningfully with the world around them. Our program guides them through this important transition with intention, structure, and a strong sense of purpose.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
- Integrated curriculum aligned with Ontario Ministry standards
- Emphasis on collaboration, leadership, and independent thinking
- Personalized academic guidance and student-led goal setting
- Cross-disciplinary projects that foster real-world connections
- Opportunities for community engagement and civic involvement
A Montessori Approach to the Adolescent Years
Middle school is a time of significant change—cognitively, emotionally, and socially. At UMS, we honor this growth by offering a learning environment that provides autonomy with support, challenge with encouragement, and freedom with responsibility.
Our students develop advanced academic and life skills through integrated, inquiry-driven studies across key subject areas:
- Language Arts – Persuasive writing, literary analysis, debate, research, and public speaking
- Mathematics – Pre-algebra, algebra, data analysis, and real-world problem-solving
- Sciences – Lab-based biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science
- Humanities – Canadian and world history, civics, ethics, and global studies
- Executive Skills & Research – Time management, organization, and cross-disciplinary inquiry
- Community Engagement – Service learning, leadership opportunities, and civic responsibility
Students take an active role in shaping their learning—managing long-term projects, engaging in collaborative problem-solving, and participating in student-led conferences.
Why Montessori Middle School?
Montessori education offers a powerful alternative to traditional middle school. Our approach prioritizes the development of the whole student, preparing them not just academically, but also emotionally and socially. Students are treated with respect, encouraged to be independent thinkers, and supported in building strong internal motivation.
What makes our Middle School experience unique:
- Strong student-teacher relationships rooted in mutual respect
- Individualized academic planning that meets students where they are
- Flexible pacing to support both acceleration and targeted support
- Real-world applications through service, field studies, and integrated projects
- A calm, inclusive learning environment that fosters well-being and focus
In this setting, adolescents are challenged to grow, to question, and to lead—with the guidance and structure they need to thrive.
Preparing for High School and Beyond
The Middle School years at UMS are a bridge between the independence of Montessori learning and the expectations of secondary school. By combining Montessori methodology with the rigor of the Ontario curriculum, students leave well-prepared for any high school setting—public, private, or specialized.
UMS graduates stand out for their:
- Academic readiness and mastery of curriculum expectations
- Strong executive functioning and personal organization
- Self-awareness and confidence in presenting ideas and solving problems
- Adaptability, resilience, and intrinsic motivation
They are articulate, socially responsible, and capable of advocating for themselves as they take on new academic and personal challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Unlike traditional programs that often focus heavily on standardized testing and lecture-based instruction, our Montessori Middle School emphasizes independent thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and real-world application. Students are guided—not dictated—to take increasing ownership of their academics, develop leadership skills, and build resilience through meaningful, hands-on work.
Yes. Our Middle School program integrates the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum while preserving core Montessori values such as student choice, collaboration, and experiential learning. This dual approach ensures that students meet or exceed provincial standards while developing deeper critical thinking and executive functioning skills.
Absolutely. UMS students leave Middle School with a strong academic foundation, excellent time management skills, and a confident sense of self. They are well-prepared for success in public, private, IB, and other high school programs, including entrance exams and accelerated academic pathways.
Students are encouraged to take on a variety of leadership roles, including mentoring younger students, leading classroom initiatives, organizing events, and participating in community outreach projects. These experiences build confidence, communication skills, and a sense of purpose.
Middle School is a time of rapid emotional change. Our educators are trained to support students with empathy, structure, and guidance. The environment encourages open communication, peer collaboration, and time for self-reflection. Regular class meetings, goal-setting sessions, and student-led conferences help students understand themselves and others more deeply.
Technology is integrated thoughtfully as a tool for research, presentation, collaboration, and organization. Students may use laptops for writing, data analysis, coding, and multimedia projects, while still engaging in hands-on learning, experiments, and face-to-face collaboration.
A typical day includes:
- A morning work cycle focused on academic studies and small-group lessons
- Independent project time and peer collaboration
- Subject blocks for math, science, humanities, and language arts
- Outdoor activity or physical education
Enrichment through French, arts, leadership, or community service projects
The schedule is designed to balance academic focus with movement, creativity, and social engagement.
Visit Our Middle School
Step into our Middle School classrooms and see how UMS empowers students in Grades 7 and 8 to grow as confident learners, independent thinkers, and emerging leaders. Experience how our unique blend of Montessori philosophy and academic rigor prepares adolescents for high school—and for life.