By The Montessori School, Edinburgh
Here at The Montessori School, Edinburgh we operate a bit differently. Instead of strict schedules we use personal planners, teacher meetings and a daily uninterrupted work cycle that allows the child to work at their own pace. The result is children who take an active role in their education and have responsibility for their own learning.
Children at The Montessori School, Edinburgh start their week by scheduling their learning tasks. The class teacher works with each of the children to help set weekly targets and the students then plan when they want to complete these tasks. They write them on their planners and continue to add any work they choose to do throughout the work cycle. The teacher also works with the children throughout the week to present new information and resources which they observe the child is ready for and to ensure all areas of the curriculum are being covered. In essence, the children are in control of how they use their time, a true anomaly in modern education!
In contrast to frequent, short lessons throughout the school day we start with an uninterrupted 3 hour work cycle. During this time, children can focus on topics they are interested in, working at a pace that is comfortable for them without being interrupted. While they are encouraged to refer back to their planners to ensure they stay on track throughout the week, the children choose which materials they wish to work with and where in the classroom they want to work. The ability to focus on a topic for a longer period of time not only helps to increase their attention span but also allows them to truly immerse themselves in their work and find true joy in it.
Our Montessori classroom is an intentionally prepared space where children engage in hands-on learning experiences. Children have access to a wide range of concrete learning materials that are specifically designed to engage their senses and promote active exploration.
Children who are in what Maria Montessori called the second plane of development (aged 6-12) are sociable and want to work together. In our classroom they have the opportunity to work in pairs or small groups which creates a truly social and collaborative environment. This means when the students are interested in a specific topic or area they have what they need to dive right in, excitedly learning with their friends.
At The Montessori School, Edinburgh children are inspired to be independent, self-motivated individuals who are part of a learning community. Our planners, work cycles and prepared classroom environment all contribute to the success of our learners.
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