Are Montessori Directresses and Assistants trained in any special way?
Montessori directresses receive rigorous training which includes most aspects of regular teacher training in addition to those specific to the Montessori context. They learn how to prepare and maintain the environment so it provides optimal opportunities for the individual development of each child. They learn how to select, make and use the specialized Montessori materials, and how to adapt these to individual needs. Training includes aspects of psychology and education philosophy as well as detailed content in all subject areas the Directress will be presenting to the children. Whereas regular teachers only specialize in one age group, Montessori training covers a wide age range, giving the Directress an understanding of the needs of all the children an insight into where they have been and where they are going. Most importantly, Montessori training focuses on self-examination. The Directress is trained to examine herself and her role in interactions with the children. This inner exa
