“WMI primary training thoroughly versed me in Montessori theory and abundantly prepared me to offer excellent presentations, but more importantly it invited me, after many years already in this work, to enter even more deeply into the spiritual transformation necessary to be truly present to children.”
Primary
Dr. Montessori created a developmental approach that honors the way the young child naturally learns — through sensorial exploration of the surrounding world.
The keys to the world are embodied in the Montessori learning environment. Children explore with specialized materials which support independence, problem-solving, literacy, numeracy, cultural appreciation, and a deep relationship with the natural world. In these early years, the child creates a strong sense of self and the habits of a life-long learner.
Observation: 90 hours. Practice teaching: 120 hours.
WMI holds MACTE accredited status for its Primary teacher education courses through 2031.
Learning aims
- Acquire comprehensive knowledge of Montessori instructional methods and materials appropriate to specific age groups.
- Articulate the relationship of learning at a specific age group to the broader continuum of human development.
- Apply knowledge of the liberal arts to the design of integrated, interdisciplinary curricula.
- Develop the academic, professional, and personal skills to independently direct a Montessori classroom.
- Practice facilitation skills to elicit independent activity and exploration.
- Demonstrate consideration and respect for each child as an intellectual, physical, emotional, social, and spiritual being.
- Develop community-building skills based upon a fundamental respect for children and adults.
- Advocate for the rights of all children.
Components of the course
Theoretical foundations
Lectures and discussions on Montessori philosophy and child development form the basis of theory essays, supplemented by directed readings of Dr. Montessori’s books.
Methodology
Demonstrations of specialized materials arranged in a carefully prepared classroom. Practical life, sensorial, language, mathematics, and scientific and cultural subjects.
Hands-on experience & practical instruction
Regular practice with materials in our model classroom. Students gain the essential skills needed to guide a group of children within a community setting.
Observation, practice teaching, albums
See how Montessori works in classrooms and work directly with children. Students write theory papers on ten essential topics and craft illustrated reference manuals for each of the four areas of the prepared environment. Students are also guided in handmade material making.
See Primary diploma courses
New Primary courses are listed with the 3–6 cohorts. The academic-year course that began in September 2026 is underway.