Qualification
60 ECTS
Duration
Monday Aug 15th – Sat Sep 24th 2022
1 Year Flexible Study (Level 7)
September 2022 - May 2023
Mode of Study
Part time (Blended)
Applications
Recognition of Prior Learning and Experience is available for advanced entry for those with Early Years and/or Montessori Education at Level 6 (Major) or Above
Location
Flexible (Part Time)
Fees
€ 3,990 (Stage 3, 1 year P/T), (€4,990 for F/T)
Instalment plans available
Tax rebate (20%) eligible
Programme Information
This course is a bridging programme which aims to bridge the gap between your existing qualifications and experience and the advanced entry point to the final year (stage 3) of our Level 7 B.Ed. Montessori Education degree. Having completed the Bridging programme you will be in a position to apply, via the Recognition of Prior Learning application process, for advanced entry to Stage 3.
All part-time applications are via direct application to the College.
For further information contact info@smsi.ie.
International Applications
Applications from international learners are very welcome, though please note that this programme is not on the ILEP and therefore cannot provided Stamp 2 visa status. Please register your interest and we will be in touch with next steps.
Applicants to this programme must meet normal QQI requirements for entry to the level 7 B.ED Montessori Education programme via the Recognition of Prior Learning Application (RPL). The entry requirements are as follows:
- Level 6 (Major award): Montessori Education
- Level 6 (Major award): Early Childhood Education
Applicants must apply under Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), and Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning, (RPEL), and are considered on a case by case basis. Applicants wishing to apply to the course using RPL and or RPEL must inform the College at the time of application. Each application is reviewed on a case by case basis by the RPL Committee, who convenes at set intervals throughout the year. Please be sure to make your application before the application deadline so as to ensure that your application will be reviewed in time for the upcoming RPL Committee meeting. Further details on the requirements and processes for RPL and RPEL can be found on this website on the RPL Page.
PROGRAMME MODULES BY STAGE
Please note that these modules are subject to change as part of the finalisation of the validation process with QQI.
MODULE 1: Montessori Education - Birth to 3
In introducing Montessori educational philosophy, Síolta and Aistear, this module will investigate how best to offer children creative, interactive environments conducive to the development of life skills such as independence, cooperation, personal care, self-regulation, exploration, problem solving and interpersonal communication. Reflection on the pedagogy of playful learning, and the role of the adult in this process, will be a key aspect of the module.
MODULE 2: Montessori Education - 3 to 6
The overall aim of the module is to provide learners with the knowledge and skills to create environments for children in the early years, where the focus is on the child as an active agent of his/her own education. Using knowledge of Montessori Educational philosophy and Síolta and Aistear, this module will investigate how best to offer children creative and interactive environments conducive to the development of life skills and executive functions. This module will build on module 1, continuing to highlight the importance of sensory and concrete learning activities, literacy and numeracy skills and inclusive practice. The module will also introduce the issue of ICT and discuss the ‘pros’ and ‘cons’ of technology for digital natives, in the early years.
MODULE 4: Special Education
This module focuses on differentiation and responses to diversity. It introduces learners to practice and planning for children with assessed syndromes and specific learning difficulties. It outlines the Individual Education Plan (IEP) process and the importance of differentiation both in planning and in practice. The theoretical aspects of the module are linked to practice by examining how Montessori concepts, in particular those relating to sensory development and the concrete experience, can be integrated to practice to support children’s learning. This module aims to provide the learner with a deeper understanding of differentiation and responses to diversity.
MODULE 3: Sociology
This module introduces learners to key people, perspectives and concepts in the study of society. It provides a lens through which learners can observe and seek to understand their culture, and the social world around them. Learners are encouraged to think about how the ways in which they were socialised have formed their own beliefs and values, and how society with its systems and institutions has influenced their own development. In particular, learners will consider the concepts of family and the social construction of childhood.
Bridging fees = €990 per year (FREE FOR MARCH 2022)
One Year Level 7 fees = € 3,990 Part Time Study
International students who require a study visa to reside in Ireland are subject to higher fees as follows:
Full time fees = €6,990 per year
Newly enrolling students must pay a non-refundable €500 deposit to secure a place. The deposit will be deducted from the Level 7 B.Ed. fees.
PLEASE NOTE THE BRIDGING PROGRAMME IS FREE FOR MARCH 2022 ENROLMENTS – STUDENTS MUST STILL PAY THE €500 NON REFUNDABLE DEPOSIT AGAINST THE B.ED. LEVEL 7 FEES.
Instalment plans are available.
Income tax credit at the marginal rate of 20% is also available for Irish tax payers for all fees over the disregard amount of €3,000 (FT) and €1,500 (PT).
Typical Example:
Total Fees = €5,990
Disregard = €3,000
Tax credit = €2,990 x 20% = €598
Net Fees = €5,990 = €598 = €5,392
Each person’s tax situation is different. Please consult revenue’s website for further information.
About Level 7 B.ED Montessori Education
SNMCI’s Level 7 Bachelor of Education in Montessori Education is a three year programme in which students are able to discover in-depth the benefits and revolutionary pedagogy of Maria Montessori within the Education system in Ireland.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is this for?
This programme is designed for existing early years educators who are seeking a QQI accredited Level 7 award. As the B.Ed. Montessori Education is recognised by the Early Years Qualifications Advisory Board (QAB), graduates are eligible to be included in quotas for the ECCE higher capitation fee.
Learners who enrol on the Bridging programme, starting in March 2022, followed by the final year of the B.Ed. Montessori Education can attain Level 7 professional status in just over 1 year of study. This programme will also add valuable knowledge and competencies in the Montessori method to your existing skill set.
Why St Nicholas Montessori College?
We are accredited by QQI and we are a founder member of the Higher Education College Association (HECA). We have been delivering education programmes since 1970 and all of our programmes our underpinned by our application of Montessori philosophy and methodology which values the unique learning potential of every human being. Our College is compact and accessible, offering learners a true sense of belonging and community in the heart of Dun Laoghaire and Cork.
Will this give me Teaching Council recognition?
No. This course is not recognised by the Teaching Council under Route 4. The course recognised by the Teaching Council is the current L8 BA Honours in Montessori Education, in which students with Early Years or Montessori degrees can apply for the Bridging Programme until Spring 2021.
I've applied, now where can I find more information on the area?
For more information on the surrounding area like accommodation, facilities, local life and more please see our community page!
Incredible Skills
We practice what we preach. Learning via the Montessori method will provide you with a set of 21st Century learning skills which will serve you throughout your career, whether that be in education of another discipline.
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