FAQ
About Admissions
What are the key timelines for admissions?
Please review our specific admissions timelines and details, which vary per level. Generally speaking, open houses, school visits, interviews and testing generally take place for all levels in the Fall of the upcoming academic year; however, if you are unable to meet these timelines, please contact our Admissions Office to discuss an application off-schedule.
What is the necessary information required for a completed application?
A completed application form. A $100 non-refundable application fee, payable by cash, check or bank wire. A copy of the student’s birth certificate. A copy of the parental/guardian Bermudian citizenship/permanent residency certificate/work permit. Our Admissions Office will contact you should they require additional information.
Is my child required to test as part of the application process?
It varies. Children applying to our 1/2 day Children’s House programme (3 years old) do not need to test; parents are instead required to attend an informal interview with our Admissions Office. Students applying for our full-day Children’s House programme (4 years old), lower primary or higher will need to provide a copy of their school transcripts and take an age-appropriate assessment.
Does an application for financial aid affect admission approvals?
No. Somersfield Academy understands education can be an expensive investment into a child’s future and offers support to families who require financial assistance. The application and decision process for admissions and financial support are managed separately.
About our Curriculum
What is Montessori?
The Montessori Method fosters rigorous, self-motivated growth for children and adolescents in all areas of their development—cognitive, emotional, social, and physical.
Montessori education is student-led and self-paced but guided, assessed, and enriched by knowledgeable and caring teachers, the leadership of their peers, and a nurturing environment.
Within the community of a multi-age classroom—designed to create natural opportunities for independence, citizenship, and accountability—children embrace multi-sensory learning and passionate inquiry. Individual students follow their curiosity at their own pace, taking the time they need to fully understand each concept and meet individualized learning goals.
What is the class structure in Children’s House and Primary school?
Children's House (half-day, full-day, P1) encompasses multi-aged classes with students aged 3 to 6 years old. This combination creates a family atmosphere where students learn to care about others, are taught to manage their community, and develop leadership skills and independence. Children are taught by the same teacher for their full three years within the Children's House. This allows teachers to develop close, long-term relationships with their students and to work with each child's learning style. Additionally, it encourages a strong sense of community among the children at a young age.
At the lower primary level (P2, P3, P4), classes continue to be multi-aged with students aged 6 to 8 years old. This allows students to continue to build social skills in a more mature, supportive, respectful environment and to stretch themselves academically. Children learn with and from each other and rather than competing with one another, they grow together as a community, using their social skills and practising teamwork.
In the upper primary level (P5, P6), classes transition into a more traditional style with a single age group for each year. Students continue to build important social and leadership skills in a respectful environment whilst increasing their confidence and furthering their independence. Students leave upper primary prepared and eager to take on the academic rigour of secondary school.
What is International Baccalaureate?
The IB program encourages students to think broadly, beyond the boundaries of their communities, and to see themselves as members of a global society. It has gained recognition and respect from most U.S. colleges.
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme is an intense curriculum for high school juniors and seniors that emphasizes intercultural understanding and enrichment. It culminates in six rigorous subject exams.
The program was originally a standard curriculum for students moving from one country to another (such as children of diplomats or the military). Today, there are now over a million IB students in nearly 150 countries. It is highly respected by colleges and worth pursuing if your high school offers it.
Why should I choose Somersfield Academy?
We believe Somersfield Academy offers a dynamic, future-ready education and experience unlike any other available in Bermuda. Not only is our approach unique on the island, but there are very few schools that offer both a Montessori and IB curriculum worldwide. Please visit here to learn more.