Do we need to also speak french at home with our child?

To be eligible for this program, children will benefit significantly if they are already exposed to French in their home environment. We strongly recommend that at least one parent or family member or nanny speaks French with the child to help establish a strong foundation for language development. For English-only speaking families, hiring a French tutor is also an effective way to support and enhance their child's language skills.

What is the difference between French immersion and a Francophone class?

At our Montessori school, the distinction between a French immersive program and a Francophone class lies in the depth and authenticity of language exposure. While both programs aim to cultivate strong French language skills, our Francophone class stands out due to its unparalleled quality. In this program, instruction is led by native French-speaking Montessori teachers who provide students with authentic language experiences. This ensures that children develop a correct accent, proper grammar, and a rich vocabulary—both spoken and written—without the influence of English (known as anglicisme). In contrast, an immersive French program may involve exposure to the language through a broader range of activities but may not offer the same level of precision in linguistic development. Our Francophone program guarantees that students gain mastery and cultural nuances that align with native fluency, giving them a significant advantage in their language learning journey.

How do you make French a priority for your school?

We pride ourselves on our exceptional team of AMI-certified teachers who are also native French speakers, ensuring a high-quality French experience for all levels in the francophone program. Our Toddler teacher is francophone and brings over 20 years of experience in Montessori education. The Casa teacher, who obtained her AMI diploma in France, also provides instruction in French only, and all language materials are in French to maintain excellence. Our Elementary teacher, who serves as the head of school over 20 years of experience in Montessori education, is also francophone and is deeply committed to making Blossom Montessori the best Francophone program in Ottawa. Additionally, our administrative team, including staff involved in admissions and finance, is francophone as well. Families can be served in French upon request, as we deeply value the quality of French in our region and make it a priority in our educational approach.

Why is Francophone culture important at your school?

We believe that understanding and appreciating Francophone culture is as vital as learning the language itself. Immersing students in the rich traditions, history, and values of Francophone communities fosters cultural awareness, respect, and a sense of identity. We celebrate this cultural importance through various events and activities that highlight French language and heritage. One notable example is our annual Semaine de la Francophonie (Francophone Week), where students and families come together to participate in activities that showcase Francophone music, art, literature, and cuisine. These events create an engaging and authentic learning experience that deepens students' connection to the language and its cultural roots, encouraging them to become global citizens with an appreciation for diversity.