Plenty Valley Montessori School

Dr Maria Montessori (1870-1952) was a scientist, doctor and advocate for the rights of children everywhere. Twice nominated for a Nobel Prize for contributions to world peace, she was the first woman to graduate from a university in Italy, obtaining a degree in medicine. She also studied educational philosophy, psychology and anthropology.
It was through her studies of impoverished children that she discovered the exceptional qualities inherent in all children, when given the best conditions for learning. She spent the rest of her life developing her educational ideas and philosophies, which are practised worldwide today.
Dr Montessori discovered that children learn best if they are given:

• A prepared environment, for practicing the skills they need which is prepared by the teacher, using scientifically designed materials.
• The opportunity to follow their natural curiosity.
• An environment of love, security, respect and order.
• Tasks appropriate to their level of development

"If one is able to harness a child's innate delight in discovery, to make use of his self-motivation, there is no reason why this enthusiasm for school should fade."

Dr Maria Montessori