Beyond Inspired
Harnessing Curiosity

Denice Scala, CEO

Looking at this wonderful image you can feel the physical stretch that reaches for the cognitive challenge of something new. Can you think of a time when your child wanted to reach something so badly that they found a way? I can still see my daughter precariously perched on top of a stool that she had positioned on top of a chair, peering into a cupboard to find something she wanted. Her approach would not have passed any safety check, but it worked and demonstrated determination, independence and that inevitable joy of personal achievement

This is real learning. As Maria Montessori said, “We do not want complacent pupils, but eager ones.” The more I read her work and see her approach in action, the more astounded I am by her vision. As with all pioneers, it takes the world a while to catch-up. She knew what has now been backed by research and science, that when you understand child and brain development, you understand how to teach. She understood that students leading their own learning was paramount; that developing self-regulated skills was key, that integrated not segmented learning was how you make connections and that movement and cognition are linked to building executive functioning.

She not only knew the theory, she designed a system to put her theories into action. That is the difference of a Montessori education. It doesn’t rely on interpretation, it’s practical in its execution. This is highly significant. Montessori trained educators are masters in the field of child development and the pedagogy that backs this up.

I love observing in the Montessori environments at Forestville Montessori School. Time flies and I always leave with an enduring respect for our staff’s work.

In 2017, The Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) undertook research in the United States to learn more about Montessori and non-Montessori parent aspirations and motivations. One of the key findings will not surprise you: Teacher quality is the highest priority for parents when choosing programs for their children.

The staff team at Forestville Montessori School is amazing. I encourage all families to take advantage of the opportunity to observe in our environments and see for yourself the incredible opportunities your children are offered every day. Observation is another brilliant component of a Montessori education. You can come and observe your child in their environment. You are also encouraged to observe in the environment your child will be moving to next. In this way, you can see for yourself the continuum of learning.

Our 4^th edition of InFocus captures Forestville Montessori School in action. See how we take Dr Maria Montessori’s theory and turn it into reality for our students. See how we’re moving ahead with new programs such as URSTRONG as we blend the very best of Montessori theory with practical applications for everyday learning. See all of this as we embrace what it means to journey with every child Thriving beyond.