Elementary Community (6-12 years)

“Everything invented by man, physical or mental, is the fruit of someone’s imagination, and when we propose to introduce the universe to the child, what but imagination can be of use to us?”
—Maria Montessori

Our Elementary classroom provides an environment for children to continue to develop their reasoning, and imaginative minds. Our teachers guide elementary students as they contemplate all aspects of the world around them, the universe, and their responsibilities as part of a society.

Elementary aged children are typically characterized by their questioning minds, their ability to abstract and imagine, their moral and social orientation and their unlimited energy for research and exploration. They move from the concrete through their own efforts and discovery to the abstract – thus greatly expanding their field of knowledge.

In a research style of learning, elementary children work in small groups on a variety of projects which spark the imagination and engage the intellect. Our Montessori trained guide/teacher direct the children toward activities which help them to develop reasoning abilities and learn the arts of life.

Children, at this age, are driven to understand the universe and their place in it and their capacity to assimilate all aspects of culture is boundless. Elementary studies include geography, biology, history, language, mathematics in all its branches, science, music and art. Exploration of each area is encouraged through trips outside the classroom to community resources, such as library, planetarium, botanical garden, science centre, factory, hospital, etc. This inclusive approach to education fosters a feeling of connectedness to all humanity, and encourages their natural desire to make contributions to the world.

The Elementary classroom provides a wide variety of carefully designed Montessori materials to bring the children into contact with practical and concrete means of exploring and mastering a rich curriculum. Students study the interdependence of life; the development of civilization, language, and culture; and their roles as contributors to and stewards of life on Earth.

The elementary program provides a developmentally based and integrated approach to the child’s studies, which include:

Specialty teachers work with the children on a weekly basis in the areas of foreign language, art, music, and physical education. Students study drama and participate in cultural activities throughout the year.

In class, students are allowed to pursue a project in depth without interruption, under the guidance of the teachers who keep careful records on each child’s progress and needs. Multi-age groupings at the elementary level enhance social development, learning, and a sense of belonging.