This is a level 2 [England] course for anyone working in a Montessori classroom for 2 to 5 year olds as a classroom assistant who has had no previous Montessori training. It is designed to be delivered in-house by a qualified Montessorian on the staff of the setting and so needs to be organised by the management. This course can begin at any time and may be supported by local authority funding. It consists of 70 hours of face to face tuition supported by practically based assignments. Successful students can carry forward their work towards a level 4 diploma. Montessori settings putting on this course for their staff can offer the training to other Montessori settings in their locality, or invite parents to participate also.

The environment must be equipped with a good range of standard Montessori materials, particularly in the practical life and sensorial areas.

what the course covers

The course comprises 70 taught hours and 130 hours of classroom experience, supported by a series of work-based practical assignments. A comprehensive course outline, a detailed plan and notes for each session, reading assignments and class-based assignments are all supplied.

The taught component gives an overview of the philosophy and principles underpinning Montessori practice, with a particular focus on the preparation and maintenance of the environment; the role of the Montessori assistant in supporting children's learning; child development and early years policy and provision.

The practical taught sessions cover practical life, sensorial education and the creative curriculum.

the work the students do

Students compile two files, one on practical life, one on sensorial and carry out two observation visits to different settings. The files and coursework assignments are marked by the course tutor and moderated by the Montessori Partnership

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Final assessment is undertaken by the Montessori Partnership. Students take a practical examination in the practical life and sensorial areas. There is also a multiple choice / short answer written paper.

The students' work in practical life and sensorial may be credited towards the award of the Montessori Partnership's Diploma/Certificate in Early Years Education.

availability of funding

To date funding has been made available to support the delivery of this course from their early years training budgets by various local authorities, including Hampshire, Leicestershire, North Somerset, Bristol, and North Yorkshire.

please use the 'contact us' form to request a syllabus and costings for this course option

'Thank you again for such a wonderful course, I enjoyed it very much' -  Classroom Assistant course student