CAIS

Canadian Accredited Independent Schools (CAIS) is an organization that established standards and provides accreditation to Independent schools across Canada and now Bermuda. The accreditation process involves a significant self-study during which the school responds to a series of detailed questions and is asked to document its practices and approaches. This report is reviewed by a team of 6-10 educators from other schools who then visit the school to verify the report and offer recommendations for school improvement. The review includes standards for all areas including academics, financial practices and general management. Schools go through the review process every seven years.

The Montessori Philosophy

Dr. Maria Montessori developed the Montessori approach to education at the beginning of the 20th century. Today, the Montessori approach is embraced throughout the world and many of its basic tenets are followed in both public and private schools. The Montessori approach is best described as a philosophy or a way of thinking that places the child at the centre of learning. The environment, the unique materials and the teachers all interact to allow the child to actively learn in a meaningful and independent way. Children are supported in the freedom to make choices, are guided to develop personal competency and self-confidence and are challenged to build strong foundations for understanding. The classroom is a community of learners where cooperation and care for one another are a natural part of the daily experience.

The MYP IB Programme

The International Baccalaureate Organisation’s Middle Years Programme (MYP), designed for students aged 11 to 16 years, was established in 1992 and very effectively complements the educational philosophy of Montessori. Founded in the 1960’s, the International Baccalaureate Organisation grew out of international school efforts to establish a common curriculum for geographically mobile students. As in the Montessori programme, our students’ intellectual and social development is the focus of MYP. Eight academic subjects, including technology and a second language, are enhanced by five overall themes: community service, health and social education, effective study skills and the products of man. These themes give a unique perspective to learning and ensure that knowledge is practical and dynamic, in addition to academic. With the combination of a strong Montessori foundation and our Middle Years Programme, the Academy truly offers children a first-class education.