Montessori Schooling

Montessori schooling is so in tune with modern educational theory that it is hard to believe this comprehensive educational system has been around for so many years. What’s more, the system fits perfectly with the critical outcomes of the new national curriculum in South Africa. Children in a Montessori school are enabled to think and learn both independently and in peer groups, to care for their environment and others, and to take an active, responsible role in maintaining the order and atmosphere of their classroom. Maria Montessori’s own view of learning as a life-long adventure is echoed in South Africa’s curriculum and the goal of creating ‘life-long learners’.

As Montessori schools have become more popular with parents seeking the best options for their children, they seem to have popped up all over the place. One disadvantage to this is that a school does not need to be accredited to advertise itself as a Montessori school. It is thus difficult to know whether a prospective school is actually following the Montessori method. However, a visit to the school and a chat to the Directress (as teachers are known in the Montessori tradition) should allow you to judge very quickly.

My son attends Follow-Me Montessori, in Gillitts, KZN. There, you will not find the bright primary colours and alphabet posters of a more traditional classroom. Instead, the airy room is lined with shelves, all at child-height, with the enticing Montessori equipment set out for children to make their choice of today’s exercise. Cages and bowls hold the class pets. Framed prints of famous artworks decorate the walls. In the kitchen area, a child-sized counter holds glasses and jugs for practicing pouring and mixing. A separate library, furnished with comfortable miniature armchairs, provides a quiet space for reading and learning. Outdoors, a bike track circles a herb garden, while the adventure path leads to a miniature jungle.

A Montessori classroom should be an open space, with sturdy, child-sized furnishings and all the equipment necessary for a child to progress as their development allows. Children must have the space to spread out the exercise they are working on without disturbing others or feeling cramped. There must be clear separate spaces for different types of exercises, so that the children are able to see everything clearly and work easily. Outside time must be allowed for, with practical and inspiring outdoor equipment in a safe environment.

If you’re looking for a Montessori school in your area, you can contact the South African Montessori Association for a recommendation.