What is Montessori?
The Montessori method was founded by Italian doctor Maria Montessori. The first Montessori
school opened in Rome in 1907 and the philosophy and method has since spread around the world.
The Montessori philosophy is based on direct observation of the child. Dr Montessori recognised
that the first six years of life forms the basis of character and personality, and so based her
methods on exposing the child to a stimulating learning environment with opportunities for growth
through self-discovery. This is what you’ll find in our centres.
Learning is founded on each child’s individual potential and enthusiasm.
The Environment
In a Montessori environment you’ll find an atmosphere of peace, generosity and co-operation.
We have qualified and specially trained Montessori teachers who are committed to encouraging a child’s
natural curiosity and desire to learn.
You’ll find children in mixed aged classes learning from each other, spontaneously choosing activities
and at the same time guided and encouraged by their teachers. They learn to respect themselves and
others and their environment, and in so doing also develop self-confidence, concentration and a sense
of order and harmony.
What We Do
Montessori environments aren’t like regular classrooms where children are taught as a group.
Individual differences are encouraged. The environment you’ll find has specially designed equipment
and materials to meet children’s needs. Our method aims to provide practical activities as a link between
home and our centres.
It is also planned to develop enjoyment of the senses and skills through the use of colour, sound,
language, and using activities like puzzles and games, stories and maps, globes and books.
History, geography, music, art and drama are also part of the child’s day, depending on their ages. Measuring,
comparing, understanding texture, volume, weight, simple mathematics and simple science are all provided in
the context of the child’s abilities to absorb and enjoy them.
In a Montessori environment your children will find:
- fun and friendship
- stimulation and security
- freedom to be themselves
- opportunities to learn
- teachers they can trust
Montessori aims to give a child the opportunity to learn independence, self-discipline, high selfesteem,
a love of learning, good social skills, problem-solving skills, consideration for others, respect for
their environment, enhanced powers of concentration, and solid skills for language and maths.
Our New Zealand Early Childhood Curriculum ‘Te Whaariki’ is integrated and practised within our
Montessori curriculum. We also ensure that the New Zealand curriculum framework requirements are met,
as our centres cater for children until six years old.
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