At the St. Nicholas Montessori School we work with children aged 3 to 12. From the ages of 2 yrs and 8 months to 12yrs, the Primary School Curriculum is taught in full using Montessori methodologies.

This means that St. Nicholas children benefit from the full breadth of the primary school curriculum whilst also being able to benefit from the whole child development approach of the Montessori method. Children enter the post-primary school system in the normal way, accessing provision in the state and private sectors in the same way that children from any national school would.

Maria Montessori began her pioneering work with many children who had additional learning needs. And today, the Montessori method continues to be extremely effective in supporting learners who may face additional challenges when learning in mainstream classrooms.

St. Nicholas Montessori schools are co-educational. All pupils participate fully in all learning activities in a totally inclusive approach, regardless of gender.

St. Nicholas Montessori Society and School does not adhere to a specific religious doctrine and as such can be described as Multi-denominational.

The Montessori method includes the spiritual development of the child and this is encouraged throughout a child’s time in a St. Nicholas school. However, this spiritual development is not developed through the lens of a particular religious doctrine. All religions are respected and valued equally. Different belief systems are explored in an educational manner and the main religious festivals of a range of religions are celebrated in an age appropriate manner.

Montessori education encourages children to develop 21st century skills. These include critical thinking, collaboration, creativity and communication. Ensuring that children have the skills they need to succeed in the digital age is one of the most important issues for 21st century education.

So how does Montessori education prepare children for the challenges of the 21st century?

Through careful observation the Montessori teacher encourages children to follow their passions, learn from their mistakes and to be self-motivated. Communication and social skills are nurtured by teaching children respect for themselves and others. Montessori materials teach children to think critically and to problem solve through practical experience.

The Montessori teacher’s training focuses on individual growth and development. Observation is a key skill through which the Montessori teacher follows the individual interests and needs of each child, providing lessons and guidance when necessary. The Montessori teacher’s role in the classroom is to maintain an inspiring learning environment to encourage the child to be self-motivated.

The main objective of the Montessori approach is to help children reach their maximum learning potential while becoming well balanced individuals able to cope with the pressures of 21st century life.