What is Montessori?

The Montessori method is a system of education that seeks to nurture and develop the child’s natural interest and activity to unlock their potential. It is a child centred approach to education which has been implemented internationally for more than a century and has been identified as one of the most successful, tried and tested holistic teaching methods used today.

Children are taught at their own pace and supported to actualise their potential through attentive observation by a skilled Montessori teacher and the use of a carefully prepared environment. A proficient Montessori teacher understands and responds to the individual developmental needs of the children in order to engage them fully in their learning. High levels of engagement allow the children to attain the deepest levels of concentration and eventually become independent lifelong learners.

This comprehensive approach not only promotes academic excellence, but also takes a holistic approach to developing the whole child; spiritually, emotionally, physically and socially. The Montessori method also supports the development of patience, self-control, independence, critical and lateral thinking, self-motivation, integrity and most importantly, responsibility for themselves and for all living things. There are many examples which demonstrate how this is achieved, one subtle example is the presence of mixed age groups in each class which naturally draws out the qualities of respect, mentoring, compassion and patience.