The classroom is commonly referred to as the prepared environment. This name reflects the care and attention given to creating a learning environment that will reinforce the children's independence and intellectual development. Children enjoy freedom of movement within a structured curriculum.
We consciously design our educational programme to maximise each student's academic success and at the same time strive to teach them effective study skills.
The teacher's role is to provide a safe, secure and happy environment, within which each child is nurtured, tutored, and allowed to develop at his or her own pace.
Dr Montessori noted the need for concrete experience and direct interaction with the environment and emphasised the overriding importance of concrete learning apparatus. The materials are used to stimulate the child into logical thought and discovery.
Each piece of material isolates and teaches one principle and is used in a specific sequence.
We promote active learning, not simply note memorisation of factual material.
The classroom is usually quiet, with children working independently, using 'hands on' experience, independent library research, fieldwork investigation and the scientific discovery method. There are seminar discussions and group work projects. Social skills and compassion are well developed and discipline is rarely a problem.
We ensure that each student has the right to choose whether or not he/she wishes to participate in competitive activities - these wishes are always respected.
There will be an option of after-school clubs and holiday clubs for any child that wishes to attend. These are paid for only on the occasions that they are used. The cost is available on request.
INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE
We seek to help our students to develop an international perspective on life, through the study of a second language, cultural geography, festivals and celebrations, student correspondence with sister Montessori schools around the world and a programme of international studies.
