The B.Ed. in Montessori Education degree is designed for learners who wish to embark on a career in Montessori Teaching and Early Years Education and Care (ECEC). It is a broad- based modular programme incorporating Montessori pedagogy and philosophy with the core knowledge and skills necessary to work in the early childhood sector.
The programme also provides training in business skills appropriate for those wishing to set up /manage a small business. Learners are required to complete a significant practicum (500 hours over the first three years and 100 hours in year 4), in relevant settings.
In the first two years of the programme, students focus on early education up to age 6. In year 3 the focus progresses to the transition to primary education and explores the education in children up to age 9. Students can opt to exit the programme at this stage with a Level 7 award.
In the final year of the programme students can choose one of two routes leading to the different award titles:
- Route A: Montessori Education for children ages 9 – 12 leading to the B.Ed. (Hons) in Montessori Education at Level 8
- Route B: A return to explore in further depth Montessori Education as it applies to the early years leading to the B.Ed. (Hons) in Montessori Education (Early Years) at Level 8.
These programmes are recognised by the Qualifications Advisory Board for the purposes of professional recognition in the early years sector. In addition these programmes will enable graduates to work as Montessori classroom teachers in Montessori primary schools (including our own schools) with children up to age 9 (Level 7) and up to age 12 (Route A, Level 8).
“Our aim is not merely to make the child understand, and still less to force him to memorize, but so to touch his imagination as to enthuse him to his innermost core.”
“If schooling were evidence based, I think all schools would look a lot more like Montessori schools.”
“The education of even a small child . . . does not aim at preparing him for school, but for life.”
Qualification
BEd (QQI Level 7)
ECTS = 180Programme Code: NM801
BEd (QQI Level 8)
ECTS = 240
Duration
2 semesters per year
Mode of Study
Part time