A typical Montessori classroom includes children of multiple age levels (vertically grouped), adults who direct the children, and a wide variety of materials and activities which are structured in a sequential manner to facilitate natural development and to communicate concepts. The uniqueness of the Montessori classroom is the principle of freedom within limits whilst showing respect for each other and the environment. The classroom is often quieter and calmer than a conventional nursery. Self-discipline is learned through the use of the wonderful activities available every day. Re-direction to purposeful activities which meet a need of that child and inspires him/her to intense concentration virtually eliminates the need for outward discipline.

The Teacher

Part of the Directress's (teacher) role is to see that the child is happy, nurtured, and that the environment is meeting the child's needs. Through her observations of the child, she can determine which new activities and materials may be introduced to an individual child or to a small or large group. The aim is to encourage active, self-directed learning. This will foster self-confidence and independence, which will serve your child well in the years to come.

Multi-age Groups (Vertical Grouping)

The children are vertically grouped in the nursery this provides a family-like group where learning can take place naturally in an atmosphere of co-operation rather than a competitive environment. More experienced children share what they have learnt whilst reinforcing their own learning. This leader role provides the older children with the opportunity to experience positive leadership and develop a strong sense of responsibility and self worth. Younger children are truly assisted by older children and inspired by their example. During the day children tend to gravitate towards their main areas of interest. Being exposed to more advanced academic work of the older children, younger children experience "indirect lessons" and absorb information not yet presented to them. This peer group learning, intrinsic to Montessori, means there is often more conversation and language experiences than in the conventional early education settings. Social growth abounds as the children interact with each other on a daily basis whilst learning and at play

Activities

Each child, at any time, selects individual activities which interests and engages them. They are free to work at their own pace either alone or with others, for as long as they like. One of Dr Montessori's basic tenets, is to never interrupt a child who is working well, concentrating and enjoying his activity. To disturb the child is stopping the child from ever increasing his attention span.

The activities a two - to - four year old chooses will help to develop concentration, co-ordination, self-discipline and good working habits, which are needed for the more advanced activities of the four - to - five year old. The classroom is specially prepared to ensure that each child is adequately challenged with fun, aesthetically pleasing, and has enriched activities.

Low Student to Teacher Ratio

With the advantage of 1 teacher or assistant for every 5-7 children, the child is not hindered by the progress of other students in the classroom.

Classroom Design

Classrooms are arranged in study centers, with clusters of student-sized tables and open areas for floor work. Each study center is surrounded by shelves of materials and books pertaining to a particular area such as sensorial, language and mathematics. Children move about the classrooms and choose resources.

Positive Discipline Policy

• Should a teacher find it necessary to intervene  
• Redirect a child to another activity  
• Discuss their feelings with other children and adult  
• Adopt an option policy where the child will make his/her decision.

"Concentration is the best gift we can give our children."
Maria Montessori