Montessori schools teach independence from an early age. The children take an active part in running their school, like preparing and serving food and drinks, putting equipment away after they have used it and taking care of their class environment. Practical tasks such as making sandwiches, tying shoe laces, sweeping and polishing, are available for children to learn on a daily basis.
Children are not expected to conform to set standards of achievement as in conventional schools. The Montessori Method takes account of the needs, talents, gifts and individuality of each child. The children learn at their own pace, in an atmosphere where their work is valued which makes learning fun.
In a Montessori environment children are encouraged to respect and help each other. If they choose, they will work with other children, help each other, or 'teach' each other, and they enjoy doing so. It is wonderful to watch children who really want to be responsible members of a small community.
The equipment available for learning is unique and designed by Maria Montessori. It is exceptionally good quality equipment, which means the children value it and treat it with care.
The environment of a Montessori school is peaceful and facilitates learning. Since children are happy and are learning at their own pace, they like to maintain the order in the class and respect the rules with pleasure.