Our Montessori classroom

The Montessori method is a child-centered developmental educational method, based on theories of child development originated by Italian educator Maria Montessori (1870-1952). Montessori education allows children to make creative choices in discovering themselves and the world they live in.

Entering our classroom, you will immediately notice a busy atmosphere of mixed aged children in a pleasant and attractive environment. You will see several children working alone in deep concentration, building a tower, working with colours or shapes, drawing or counting, cutting or painting, pouring water or sweeping the floor. Others have formed spontaneous pairs or small groups for play or for a snack, as they enjoy both the preparations and eating with their friends.

You will notice the teachers being mainly what Montessori described as 'a silent presence' in the classroom, closely observing each individual child. Montessori teachers kindly and gently direct children in their learning rather than entertaining them, telling them what to do or what things are like. When a teacher notices an interest awakening in the child, she directs him towards an activity which will satisfy his learning desire. Introducing the child to an activity, the child is then encouraged to explore for himself.

Nothing in our classroom is put there by accident. Every activity is there for a reason and has a purpose. Specially designed Montessori activities aid the child develop their sensory, numeric, language and practical skills. All Montessori activities are sensory and hands-on, helping the child to make sense of the world through his senses. Current research in pediatric neuropsychology approves Maria Montessori's observation that the child's brain is actually constructed by movement. In order for children to make sense of the world, they need to experience with their senses, need to touch, move, manipulate, smell, taste and construct.

In our classroom mistakes are a means of learning. 'How could I make this work?' is the question which keeps our children busy and motivated. "I did it all by myself" is a sentence we hear every day and we see the big smiles on our children's faces. Our children don't need rewards or stickers, but develop their self-respect naturally. And children who feel self-respect, naturally learn to respect others as well.