Instruction is one-on-one, or in small groups. The teacher first introduces an activity that is at the right level of difficulty, i.e. that is challenging but achievable within the range of the child’s abilities. They present the activity while seated next to the child, moving their hands slowly and precisely so that the child can observe their actions. They then have the child repeat the activity. Once the child has been shown how to do an activity in this way, the child is thereafter free to choose it at any time and work with it for as long as they like. As the child repeats the activity over time, they acquire mastery of both the motor skills involved, and of the abstract concept such as length, or colour manifested by the material.

Our full day program offers children indoor and outdoor work periods, a 2-hour morning work period (over 3’s) and afternoon work period including Large Group activities. During these times, children choose their “work” from the shelves, and carry them to a workspace they select, a low table, or a mat they roll out on the floor. Each child works independently (or, occasionally, with one or two freely chosen partners) with the material for as long as they are interested. Once they complete their work, they return it to its proper location, and are free to select another activity, or take a break, maybe have a snack, and then select their next activity. The classroom is structured, but unlike traditional setups the structure recognises the child’s need to develop the capacity to make independent choices.

To promote active- participatory learning our schools follow the Montessori curriculum areas of Practical life (Daily life experiences), Sensorial (refinement of senses), Math (numeracy, problem-solving & reasoning), Language (literacy & communication), Culture and Imaginative play. In each area materials are organized so children can get them out easily and put them away independently. We advocate using simple, real-life items wherefrom children can draw experience.

Progress for each individual child is done by our trained educators (Pædagog) on a daily basis through the children’s Individual goals and developmental checklists.  Children’s progress is shared with parents every half-year through individual parent-teacher meetings. Additional structured feedback on activities and general well-being is provided to parents on a daily basis through open communication with educators on the floor as well as through our Parent Friendly Montessori Compass interactive app-