Programs
Junior High
Junior High (12-14 years)
Montessori education for adolescents at Bishop Hamilton Montessori School addresses their unique developmental, academic, social, emotional and physical needs.
The teen years are a period for great moral and philosophical development simultaneous with physical development. Adolescents need to know about the evolution and functioning of society, to see themselves as world citizens and to investigate their own unique possible contributions. It is a time for great discussions and debates, for exploring issues and solidifying opinions and problem solving.
Bishop Hamilton Montessori School offers an adolescent program within the context of the regular Montessori school. It’s a supportive learning environment tailored to adolescents. Happy and healthy teenage experiences are essential for developing the coping skills and knowledge for successful adulthood.
Our Junior High developmental curriculum follows Dr. Montessori’s Educational Syllabus for the Adolescent.
History of Humanity
History of Exploration & Settlement, Political Geography, Environmental Studies, Religion, Peace & Conflict Studies, Law & Government, Literature/ Novel Study, National history & Current Events
Preparation for Adult Life
Preparing students physically, intellectually and spiritually (formational, informational and transformational)
Psychic Development
Moral Education, Mathematics, Languages (French)
Self
Expression
Music, Writing Workshop & Language Arts, Art, Physical Education
Study of Sciences
Study of the Earth & Living Things (Physical Geography, Biology, Anatomy, Astronomy) Study of Human Progress & the Development of Civilization (Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, Genetics, History of Science & Technology)
In addition to the standard curriculum as presented in their classroom, students continue their enriched classes from specialist instructors. Enriched classes include Art, Christian Studies, French, Music, Physical Education and Science.
Art
The Art curriculum aims to inspire students to express feelings, ideas, and issues using a variety of medians such as: two and three dimensional forms and Multimedia Art.
Christian Studies
We believe that each child has a spiritual potential and need. BHMS is committed to the spiritual growth of each child.
French
Our French program is introduced at the Casa level. The primary focus is on oral language. Daily lessons are presented naturally, humourously, imaginatively, and without English usage.
Music
Beginning in the Casa (preschool) level and beyond, students meet with the Music Specialist where they are introduced gradually to music theory and expression.
Physical Education
High energy classes are scheduled three times a week with a focus on physical activity versus athleticism.
Science
The BHMS Enriched Science Program provides students with a meaningful and interesting learning experience that applies to their every day life through the approach of the Montessori philosophy.
Highlights
Marketplace
One highlight of the Junior High program is Marketplace. In this program, students create a business, write a business plan, and prepare their products or services to sell. On Marketplace Day, students set up their businesses in the gym and learn first hand the basics about running a business while, at the same time, observing market economics at work.
School Trips
Junior High students also participate in two trips off campus each year. The first is a trip to Montreal or Quebec City where students learn first-hand about the Canadian cultural mosaic while practicing their advanced French-language skills. The second trip is a week-long bike trip. This tour applies some of the autonomy and independence skills students have developed since the beginning of their Montessori education.
Off-Site Research
Students can also conduct off-site research for science projects at places like the University of Ottawa and Health Canada. Bishop Hamilton Montessori School students have gone on to win a number of regional and national science fairs for their research.
Key Experiences
Each school year begins with a camping retreat to build class cohesion and begin integrated studies and culminates with a five-day bicycle tour in June.
Canoe Trip
Junior High students begin their year with an Odyssey Trip. A four-day long canoe trip that provides an opportunity for group bonding and individual achievements. The experience of being in nature, counting on each other, challenging themselves and reflecting on their journey enables them to take a huge developmental step forward.
June Bike Trip
The June Bike Trip is demanding physically and mentally; there is significant challenge in planning, training, and accomplishing the distance as well as meeting the needs of food and shelter as a group.
Further Key Experiences
- Pedagogy of Place (i.e. City of Ottawa Studies)
- Curriculum of Caring (community service in the school and beyond)
- Occupations & Practical Work, Physical Challenge/ Adventure Outings
- Drama/Musical Theatre Production
- Science Fair
- Cultural Excursions
- Marketplace Trade Show