(Early Childhood Education, Preschool, Kindergarten)
It is always a joy to see our youngest learners gaining the independence they crave for in each of our four dynamic and nurturing classrooms.
At ANJEF International School, the Montessori Department comprises four classrooms, namely;
Crèche (Little Sprouts)- 3months-2years
Monte 1(Leaf Spring)- 2+ – 3years
Monte 2 (Evergreen) – 3+ – 4years
Monte 3 (Gina) – 4+ – 5years
One of the pillars of the Montessori Philosophy is the multi-age groupings. For that reason, all our four preschool/Kindergarten classrooms have learners aged 3 months to 5 years. This allows the facilitator and the learner to get to know each other very well and gives the former the opportunity to provide presentations (lessons) to each learner at a level that is perfect for them as an individual.
At this level, the day begins with a block of time for free choice in activities. This is when the learner uses the Montessori materials that they have been introduced and the facilitator is a keen observer and guides the learner into use of materials which will satisfy the emergent sensitive periods of development. Each day includes breakfast, time outdoors, circle time, free flow time, snack, lunch and each week is enriched with P.E (Physical Education), French, Spanish, Music and Art.
Why choose Montessori Education at ANJEF International School?
Montessori education at ANJEF International School offers our learners opportunities to develop their potential as they step out into the world as engaged, competent, responsible, and respectful citizens with an understanding and appreciation that learning is for life.
- Each learner is valued as a unique individual. Montessori education recognizes that children learn in different ways, and accommodates all learning styles. Learners are also free to learn at their own pace, each advancing through the curriculum as he is ready, guided by the facilitator and an individualized learning plan.
- Beginning at an early age, Montessori learners develop order, coordination, concentration, and independence. Classroom design, materials, and daily routines support the individual’s emerging “self-regulation” (ability to educate one’s self, and to think about what one is learning), toddlers through adolescents.
- Learners are part of a close, caring community. The multi-age classroom—typically spanning 3 years—re-creates a family structure. Older students enjoy stature as mentors and role models; younger learners feel supported and gain confidence about the challenges ahead. Facilitators model respect, loving kindness, and a belief in peaceful conflict resolution.
- Montessori learners enjoy freedom within limits. Working within parameters set by their facilitators, learners are active participants in deciding what their focus of learning will be. Montessorians understand that internal satisfaction drives the learner’s curiosity and interest and results in joyous learning that is sustainable over a lifetime.
- Learners are supported in becoming active seekers of knowledge. Facilitators provide environments where learners have the freedom and the tools to pursue answers to their own questions.
- Self-correction and self-assessment are an integral part of the Montessori classroom approach. As they mature, learners learn to look critically at their work, and become adept at recognizing, correcting, and learning from their errors.
- Given the freedom and support to question, to probe deeply, and to make connections, Montessori learners become confident, enthusiastic, self-directed learners. They are able to think critically, work collaboratively, and act boldly—a skill set for the 21st century.