Learners will be expected to have a minimum NFQ level 5 major award in ECCE/ELC or equivalent to enrol on this Montessori course.

Minimum English language and literacy competence at entry to the embedded awards for speakers of English as a second language is B2 in writing, reading, listening, and speaking.  

Learners who have no recognised English language proficiency qualification may also be directed to Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) which is an international standard for describing language ability.

Learners will be required to possess a proficiency in I.T. Skills (Web Research and Word Processing Skills, etc.).

Module 1 – The Montessori Method in ELC This module enables learners to develop the knowledge, skills, and competence to promote the use of the principles and practices of the Montessori Method of education in an ELC setting. This module is grounded in the philosophy that each child is a unique individual with the capacity to learn and develop at their own pace, supported by a prepared environment that nurtures a child’s innate curiosity, independence, and love for learning, in order to guide the child, on their developmental learning journey to reach their full potential.

Module 2 – Montessori Practical Life and Sensorial Education in ELC This module equips learners with an in-depth understanding of the development of Dr. Maria Montessori’s curricular areas of Practical Life and Sensorial Education, within the Early Learning & Care environment. Learners will develop competency in selecting and utilising practical life and sensorial materials in order to support children’s learning and development, both directly and indirectly.

Module 3 – Montessori Language & Maths in ELC This module explores the Montessori principles, materials and activities associated with teaching language and maths to young children. This module compares the Montessori principles to the relevant national frameworks in ELC, to enable the educator to deliver a child-centred maths and language rich curriculum.

Module 4 – Montessori Culture in ELC This module explores the Montessori principles, materials and activities associated with providing a culturally responsive pedagogy. This module further compares the Montessori principles to the relevant national frameworks and guidelines in ELC, to enable the educator to deliver a diverse, culturally rich curriculum, incorporating the areas of culture, arts, botany, zoology, history, geography and science.

*Course content is subject to review after each intake and may be updated in line with industry standards.

Upon successful completion of this Montessori course and associated assignments/skills demonstrations learners will be awarded a Level 6 Specific Purpose Certificate in The Montessori Approach in Contemporary ELC.

This qualification is awarded by Quality & Qualifications Ireland (QQI) and is 60 FET credits.

The objectives of this Montessori course focus on key areas that will enhance educators’ understanding and practice of Montessori principles in early learning and care. These objectives include:

1. To capture the essence of Montessori education and its impact on early learning and care, fostering a well-rounded and enriching experience for young children.
2. To cultivate a nurturing and developmentally appropriate learning environment rooted in Montessori principles, fostering each child’s unique potential.
3. To develop a pedagogy of self-awareness and reflective practice, understanding the significance of these reflections in creating an environment that respects and nurtures each child’s individuality.
4. To empower early years educators to cultivate authentic connections, foster meaningful relationships, and build effective partnerships within the Montessori early learning and care context.

This Montessori course is designed for learners working with children between the ages of 0 to six years in Tusla registered early years services and have opportunities to apply the Montessori philosophy.

Target learners include Early Years Educators from level 5 and up, who wish to gain specific knowledge of the Montessori philosophy.

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