Choosing the right early learning environment is one of the most important decisions a parent can make. At Rothewood Academy, the answer lies in a unique, play-based approach that nurtures not just academics, but creativity, independence and emotional intelligence.
The school’s guiding motto, “Head. Hands. Heart.” captures a holistic philosophy that sets it apart.
“This speaks to the whole child method of learning,” says Rothewood Academy President Mark Leslie. “It supports children’s cognitive, emotional and life skills development simultaneously. Head means thinking, hands means doing and heart is all about feeling.”
With five early learning centres across the Lower Mainland, including three in Richmond, Rothewood Academy offers preschool and daycare programs for children aged one to five. The curriculum draws from international best practices and includes elements of Reggio Emilia, Montessori and other research-based approaches, with one goal in mind: to nurture confident, capable and compassionate lifelong learners.
“Every child is unique and experiences the world in their own way,” Leslie says.
“We help children embrace what makes them unique and celebrate all of our differences.”
That personalized approach is woven into every aspect of the Rothewood Method. Instead of rigid lesson plans, educators create flexible, interest-led learning environments where children explore ideas at their own pace.
“They’re learning about things that they’re curious about, not predetermined set themes that may have no relevance or meaning to them,” says Leslie.
“We focus on creativity, imagination, communication, emotional development and problem-solving. These are essential skills for academic success.”
That balance between academic readiness and social-emotional growth is a central pillar of the Rothewood philosophy. Teachers practice mindfulness with their students, guide them through breathing exercises and yoga and model empathy and teamwork through Rothewood’s Helping Hands program. Rothewood aims to guide children to learn to make decisions about what is right and what is wrong on their own, independent of adults and free of rewards or punishment.
“True and deep learning only happens when a child feels connected,” Leslie says.
“We prioritize relationships with children and their families because internal motivation starts with that sense of belonging.”
Much of the learning also happens outside the classroom. Rothewood’s natural play areas use logs, boulders, trees and other elements to foster safe, imaginative and open-ended exploration. Teachers give children the freedom to follow their curiosity, offering hands-on materials and intentional guidance to support discovery and resilience.
“Play is how children make sense of the world,” Leslie says.
““They test ideas, take risks, make mistakes, and try again—showing perseverance when things don’t go as planned and confidence in their own problem-solving abilities. That’s how they build self-assurance, and it’s also how they develop scientific thinking.”
Even the school’s kitchen is a learning environment. Meals are served family-style three times a day, with chefs introducing new textures and flavours that encourage children to explore food in a positive, social setting.
“Parents are always amazed at what we can get their children to eat,” says Leslie.
“These shared meals offer incredible moments of connection.”
All teachers are certified Early Childhood Educators who also complete the in-house Rothewood Teacher Training Program. Ongoing professional development is embedded throughout the year and each school’s principal provides on-the-ground support and mentorship.
Ultimately, Leslie says, the aim is to give each child the space and confidence to find their voice and to understand they belong in the community around them.
Discover how Rothewood Academy can help your child thrive—through curiosity, connection and confidence. Schedule a tour or learn more at rothewood.com.
