Island Montessori House School (IMHS) — Daycare & Preschool in Victoria, British Columbia

What parents say

• Erynne M. Gilpin

  This is the first place I have left my child outside of our family care and home. The tenderness, emotional consciousness and care that the school has demonstrated has made this transition a beautiful one that our family will cherish for the rest of our lives. Our daughter LOVES going to school and we have the privilege of witnessing her new skills, independence and growth flourish over time and care of her teachers. Thank you Island Montessori for your heart-centred and bright mind forward pedagogy, practice and care.

• Sydney Hofmeyr

  I cannot say enough about the educators and team at Island Montessori House School. It’s hard to make a short enough review about this place and if you visit the school you’ll see they have an engaging and dynamic indoor and outdoor environment, great philosophy and warm atmosphere. But what you won’t pick up on immediately is the heart and integrity at play in the leadership and team here. Katey, Emily, and the more senior educators have created an incredible environment of safety and love for small children to flourish and grow. I have a highly sensitive little one with big time separation anxiety and some other issues. They were so supportive from the start and when we encountered hurdles the staff were above and beyond in making sure we had a supportive plan. They are very inclusive and I would recommend this school 100 percent.

• Cameron McCrodan

  We’ve had two of our children attend Island Montessori (IMHS), and looking back, choosing this school was one of the best parenting decisions we’ve made. From the moment we joined the community, it was clear this is not just a place where children are looked after — it’s a place where they are truly seen, understood, and nurtured as individuals. The Montessori philosophy isn’t just something IMHS talks about; it’s something you feel in the classrooms every single day. There is a deep respect for each child’s pace, personality, and potential. One of the biggest gifts IMHS gave our kids was independence. They learned how to take responsibility for their work, manage their time, and solve problems with confidence. Instead of being pushed or rushed, they were guided in a way that helped them develop real internal motivation. It’s amazing to watch young children become so capable and self-assured when they’re trusted and supported like this. The mixed-age classroom environment has also been incredibly valuable. Our children experienced both sides — learning from older classmates and later becoming leaders and role models for younger ones. That naturally builds empathy, patience, and social confidence in a way that’s hard to replicate elsewhere. Academically, the foundation is strong and meaningful. The hands-on Montessori materials make learning feel concrete and engaging, and the focus on concentration and follow-through really shows. But just as importantly, IMHS helps children develop life skills — focus, perseverance, communication, and emotional regulation — that go far beyond academics. The staff deserve special recognition. Every educator we’ve encountered has been warm, observant, and deeply caring. Communication with families is thoughtful and respectful, and it genuinely feels like a partnership. When challenges come up (as they do with any growing child), they are handled with patience, kindness, and a belief in the child’s ability to grow. We also really appreciate the inclusive and community-centered nature of the school. There’s a strong sense of belonging, and you can tell the environment is intentionally designed to be calm, welcoming, and supportive for a wide range of learners. It feels like a place where differences are respected and celebrated. Most of all, our kids were happy there. They felt safe. They felt capable. They felt proud of what they were learning and doing each day. They came home talking about what they discovered, built, and figured out — not just what they were told. Island Montessori doesn’t just prepare children for the next grade. It helps shape confident, curious, and compassionate human beings. We’re incredibly grateful for the role IMHS has played in our family’s life and would wholeheartedly recommend it to any parent looking for a thoughtful, nurturing, and truly child-centered learning environment.

• Jeff Krawetz

  I love this school. The community that they have put together is truly special. As a dad that only gets to pickup his son once a week (mom works that day) the staff sure makes me feel special when I get to pick him up. Not only me but my son as well. He always talks about how much he loves his teachers. The outdoor playground is his favourite place and he has grown so much since he has been there. Highly recommend.

• Paulzfarm

  We love IHMS! My eldest daughter had the pleasure of attending and we couldn’t wait for our youngest to attend two years later . Both our girls will have attended for 2yrs before heading to kindergarten and we’re grateful. Katie and her team have been wonderful, the knowledge our girls have gained has been remarkable and the joy to go to school everyday is amazing! Thanks IHMS for our extended Family!