The Delta School District offers a Montessori program at the primary level (Grades Kindergarten to Grade 3) at Devon Gardens Elementary, free of additional fees or charges.
All the Montessori classrooms follow the curriculum as prescribed by the BC Ministry of Education and Child Care. The Montessori philosophy of education, based on the importance of experiential learning, independence and citizenship, acts as the foundation to the classroom learning experience.
Maria Montessori, 1870-1952
Who is Dr. Maria Montessori?
Dr. Maria Montessori, born in Italy in 1870, was an enthusiastic advocate for the rights of the child. After becoming Italy’s first female doctor, her interests turned to the education of children and she began her lifelong pursuit of studying child development. Her own educational method evolved over fifty years of work with children around the world. Dr. Montessori was nominated three times for the Nobel Peace Prize for her contributions to education and her advocacy of the rights of the child.
Dr. Montessori believed that a truly educated individual continues learning long after the years spent in the classroom because of a motivation from within, a natural curiosity and a love of learning. The aim of the Montessori philosophy is to provide a learning environment that enhances the development of intellectually reflective individuals who are personally integrated, caring and ethical members of the community.
If you would like to read more about Maria Montessori and her work we suggest the following titles:
- Montessori: The Science Behind the Genius by Angeline Stoll Lillard
- Montessori- A Modern Approach by Paula Polk Lillard
- The Discovery of the Child by Dr. Maria Montessori
- The Advanced Montessori Method by Dr. Maria Montessori
- Montessori and Your Child by Terry Malloy
Montessori Philosophy of Education
The Montessori philosophy of education is based on the following elements:
Experiential Learning
Subject areas are presented in an integrated manner using concrete materials that allow for both independent research and group work. Hands-on and specially designed learning materials provide the keys for children to develop an understanding of new concepts from a concrete to an abstract manner.
Independence and Citizenship
The Montessori philosophy of teaching aims for the fullest possible development of the whole child, ultimately preparing the child to be a well-rounded contributing member of society. The physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual development of the child is intertwined.
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