Have you ever wondered what it’s like to work as a Trainer at Montessori Academy?
Meet Montessori Trainer Danielle, whose role is to ensure that every Montessori Academy Educator has the knowledge and skills they need to implement the principles of Montessori Education in our childcare centres.
Part of Danielle’s role is to work with our Educators in the classroom to observe their teaching methods and expand their knowledge of the Montessori Curriculum.
She also hosts company-wide training sessions each month, covering a diverse range of topics, including: The Prepared Environment, the role of the Montessori Educator, the Montessori Curriculum, children’s development, Doctor Maria Montessori and the philosophy of Montessori Education.
How did you get your start in Montessori Education?
When I was 18 I started working as a Montessori Assistant in the classroom. Since then I have studied a Diploma of Montessori Education, a Diploma of Children’s Services, and have obtained a Certificate in Infant and Toddler Care.
How long have you worked in Montessori Education?
I’ve worked in Montessori Education for 11 years now, and have worked for Montessori Academy for the last six years.
What is your favourite thing about Montessori Education?
My favourite thing about Montessori Education is that it is a natural and holistic method of education that truly meets the developmental needs of the child. Montessori Education prepares children for life, and the fact that it has been around for more than 100 years and has never changed is amazing. Its unchanging state clearly demonstrates that Montessori Education is the answer to educating young children. I love that children in Montessori classrooms are independent, responsible, confident and social beings. They possess a great love for learning and they are truly happy.
If you could only teach people one thing about Montessori Education what would it be?
That you need to trust the child. The child’s intelligence, talents and abilities are naturally acquired from birth. Trust that their work has an intention and a purpose that comes from their inner consciousness. As Doctor Maria Montessori states: “He does it with his hands, by experience, first in play and then through work. The hands are the instruments of man’s intelligence.” Observe a child at work and he will amaze you with all the skills that he already possess.
What do you like most about working at Montessori Academy?
Every day I work with great Educators who come from different cultural and educational backgrounds. Each Educator brings something unique and special to the Montessori classroom, and to the Montessori Academy Team. However, what I like most is seeing the Educators get excited when they witness the difference that Montessori Education makes to learning and development of their students. They are all very positive and passionate about Montessori Education, and it shows in the results of their pupils.
What’s your favourite Doctor Maria Montessori quote?
“The greatest sign of success for a teacher… is to be able to say, ‘The children are now working as if I did not exist.’” ~ Doctor Maria Montessori.