The Philosophy & Method
Eden Montessori International School Algarve Portugal

Learning is self-paced. Children are not all doing the same thing at the same time. Individual learning needs are catered for with an uninterrupted ‘work period’, wide choice of activities and materials, and multi-age setting.

Children have the freedom to choose what activities to do each day from a wide range of possibilities. As long as a child has been presented to the chosen materials and knows how to use them they are free to practice with them for as long as they choose.

There are 3-hour work periods with extended time allowed, enabling children’s concentration to develop and “work” to happen and flow naturally. There are no block times of 30, 45, or 60 minutes.

Learning is an exciting process of discovery, leading to a love of learning.

There are multi-age classes (3-6 years, 6-9 years, and 9-12 years) that work alongside one another. This allows children to work at levels higher, lower or equivalent to their own ability levels.  Therefore the youngest learn to try new things as they watch older children, who become leaders and practice skills. In the elementary programs the group stays together for many years; during this time children learn how to solve problems, be inclusive, learn from their peers and respect and look after each other.

The Montessori materials in the classrooms have built-in controls for error, or models that make the correct skill or information evident. This feature eliminates the constant need for the teacher to be correcting mistakes and allows the children to “figure it out themselves” helping build self confidence, and allowing the teacher to observe and help where really needed.

The physical layout of the room fosters independence.  Children are free to access materials and go about their work with little help from anyone. They are encouraged to be independent in self-care activities (dressing etc.) and care for the environment they are in (putting away materials and their work etc.).

There is freedom within limits in a Montessori classroom. It may seem that the less restrictive schedule and honoring of children’s choices can result in an unstructured classroom. To the contrary, Montessori environments carry appropriate expectations and allow children to develop their own internal structure over time. The children are allowed freedom in their work time choices, but it is a freedom within appropriate limits.