Dr Maria Montessori

Last Tuesday 31 August was Dr Maria Montessori’s birthday and during our weekly online staff check-in session, we paused to consider the debt of gratitude we owe this incredible educational pioneer. Born in 1870, Dr Montessori developed her scientifically and ethically based philosophy and pedagogy over 100 years ago. Since that time, contemporary educational theory has largely endorsed these inspired approaches, and Montessori-based educational practice has borne fruit in the lives of generations around the world.

In Tuesday’s staff meeting, I reflected upon how, in my many meetings with prospective parents interested in sending their children to our school, discussion often turns to a recurring theme about the child’s propensity and potential to learn. We focused upon the following quotes from Maria Montessori that express that theme so poignantly:

“The child is truly a miraculous being, and this should be felt deeply by the educator.”

“Children are human beings to whom respect is due, superior to us by reason of their innocence and of the greater possibilities of their future.”

Montessori education honours the child as a brilliantly capable human being with enormous potential. Our children often amaze us with what they achieve. Their young lives are full of learning and development from their first days. Focusing on the miracle of their being can inspire us parents, carers and educators to provide the very best conditions for our children’s learning and development. What a privilege it is to be part of such an important mission.

Michael Dunn, Acting Principal