AMI 3-6 Diploma Course–first summer module is fast approaching!

Summer 2015 really is on its way!

Well it certainly is for the next group of AMI 3-6 students who are getting very excited. They’re busily gathering their Montessori books and generally putting plans in place as the first summer module fast approaches!

The AMI 3-6 trainers are booking their flights and we’re really looking forward to welcoming our students as they embark on this many-would-say life changing experience. To anyone whose application is still in process – get a wriggle on and quickly get it to us!

Introducing the new MMEF Alumni Co-ordinator

Carli Hausler, AMI 0-3 & AUT B.Ed (MECT) graduate will be taking over the role of MMEF Alumni coordinator from December 2014. Carli has and will continue to assist MMEF on a number of projects, thank you Carli & welcome to the team!

We already have the first e Article for 2015 ready to go out at the end of the year along with the annual AMI membership renewals.

Why Not Study the Theory-only component of the AMI 3-6 Diploma?

Did you receive your invitation to join us for the theory-only component of the AMI 3-6 Course?

We recently emailed registration details to all schools though some emails have mysteriously bounced back? Here’s the information once again.

MMEF are offering school owners and admin staff (ideal for those non-Montessori trained) the opportunity to join us for the basic Montessori theory (psycho-pedagogy) component of the A.M.I. 3-6 Diploma this summer. Several parents have inquired about this too – the good news is YES you can now join us also!

The dates will be the first two weeks of the course and a few additional theory lectures during the 2015 & 2016 summer modules. 

Not only will this expand your understanding of Montessori’s approach to child development, you’ll be able to:

• Better support your staff to create optimum learning environments for children.
• Collaborate & communicate with parents regarding their child’s enormous potential from birth to six and beyond.
• Underpin policies, self-review and assessment with Montessori principles.

Dates: Monday 5th January – Friday 16th January (plus a few additional days during 2015 & 2016, plenty of notice will be given)

Venue: Kawai Purapura Retreat, 14 Mills Lane, Albany & AUT, Northcote Campus (Friday 16th January, 2015)

Registrations open until Monday December 8th. Please email mmef@ihug.co.nz. for a registration form today!

2015 & 2016 Dates for Your Diary

Thank you, we received a number of expression of interests from South Island schools supporting a proposed AMI Assistant Certificate Course in 2015. The dates set aside for this are the primary school holidays – Monday 28th September – Friday 9th October. The final details will be sent out early next year.

AMI 0-3 Assistant Certificate Course – April/May 2016

MMEF have been liaising with Julia Hilson regarding a 0-3 AMI Assistant Certificate Course for 2016. We’ve ‘pencilled’ in the following dates April 18th – 29th, 2016 (minus Anzac Day). Confirmation and further details will be sent out next year.

Finally, as the end of year approaches, here’s a natty gift for either that person who  really has everything or the student who has a busy year ahead of them… http://www.ostrichpillow.com/

Ka kite ano, MMEF

Fret Ye Not but Don’t Delay!

Extending Application Due Date for AMI 3-6 Diploma

Over the past few days, MMEF trustees Tia Wooller and Carol Potts have had the great fortune to mingle and meet with students, school owners, board members and experienced Montessorians.

In the midst of our communications we're hearing that folk are still in process of sending in their applications for the AMI 3-6 Course starting in January. Our message to you is “don’t fret but don’t delay!”

We're extending application submissions until Monday November 10th in support of you gathering the enclosures that form part of your application.

Interviews can then be arranged for Friday 13th & Saturday 14th November.

Download your application at mmef.org.nz or email mmef@ihug.co.nz. today!

And Finally,

For those of us working or indeed living with young children, how can we aid children to develop concentration? How often do we intervene when our really our ‘help’ is not needed? Do we realise how vital concentration is as a foundation for life?

Here’s a quote to keep in mind as you watch this delightful wee video.  It is one of a short series of vignettes from Annie Fisher Montessori Magnet School in Hartford.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9PBJOlm0rw

"The first essential for the child's development is concentration. It lays the whole basis for his character and social behaviour. He must find out how to concentrate, and for this he needs things to concentrate upon. This shows the importance of his surroundings, for no one acting on the child from outside can cause him to concentrate”                                        The Absorbent Mind

Ka kite ano,

MMEF

Calling all Montessori School Owners & Administrators

Study the Montessori Theory-only component of the AMI 3-6 Diploma

MMEF are offering school owners and admin staff (ideal for those non-Montessori trained) the opportunity to join us for the basic Montessori theory (psycho-pedagogy) component of the A.M.I. 3-6 Diploma this summer!

The dates will be the first two weeks of the course and a few additional theory lectures during the 2015 & 2016 summer modules. 

Not only will this expand your understanding of Montessori’s approach to child development, you’ll also be able to:

• Better support your staff to create the optimum learning environments for children.
• Offer specific advice to parents regarding their child’s enormous potential from birth to six and beyond.
• Underpin policies, self-review and assessment with Montessori principles.

Fliers with further information will be arriving in your inbox next week! In the meantime, please email mmef@ihug.co.nz.

Dates: Monday 5th January – Friday 16th January (plus a few additional days during 2015 & 2016, plenty of notice will be given)

Venue: Kawai Purapura Retreat, 14 Mills Lane, Albany & AUT, Northcote Campus (Friday 16th January, 2015)

Additional Payment Option for Schools 

Following discussions after this week’s Auckland Montessori Network meeting at AUT, MMEF are delighted to be able to offer an additional payment schedule for schools who are considering sponsoring someone, perhaps a staff member or enthusiastic AUT graduate, to study for the AMI 3-6 Diploma this summer!

The new 3-instalment payment plan, in-line with Ministry funding dates, can only be offered to schools.

Contact mmef@ihug.co.nz for further details.

Visit mmef.org.nz to download the Course brochure or email mmef@ihug.co.nz for more information.

Ka kite ano,

MMEF

Getting Staff, Getting Jobs, Getting Known!

Dear Supporters of the Maria Montessori Education Foundation

Auckland Montessori Network - Monday 20th October at 7.00p.m.

Schools owners, teachers, friends and anyone interested in the Montessori approach to human development – you’re all invited to AUT, Akoranga Campus, AJ100 on Monday 20th October to converse, contribute and collaborate!

One of the topics for the evening will be Montessori training and careers.  MMEF will be sharing information about the forthcoming AMI 3-6 Diploma Course, starting this summer. Potential AMI students will be there too so if you’re a school owner looking to sponsor an AUT B.Ed graduate, join us too.

‘Montessori & Peace’ is on the agenda also – see you there!

Schedule Your Interview Now!

Interviews (face to face and skype) are now being arranged for students applying for the AMI 3-6 Course. The next interview dates are Friday 17th & Saturday 18th October between 9a.m. and 1p.m. 

To arrange your interview contact mmef@ihug.co.nz.

And a Classic to Close

Here’s a oldie by Glenn Miller to get us In the Mood for this summer…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_CI-0E_jses

When should you apply for the 2015- 2017 AMI 3-6 Course? Now!

Applications are open until November 1st, 2014.

Visit mmef.org.nz to download the Course brochure or email mmef@ihug.co.nz for more information.

Ka kite ano,

MMEF

Limited spaces– don’t delay, send in your applications now!

So, if you are considering staying “in-house” at the beautiful Kawai Purapura Retreat Centre to attend the AMI 3-6 Course starting this summer, we need to hear from you ASAP!

The busy team at the Retreat Centre tells us rooms are filling fast.

Remember, MMEF students will be eligible for the discounted rate of $22/p.p. per night in a twin share room. For more details visit http://www.kawaipurapura.co.nz/retreat-accommodation-2, email Roz at accommodation@kawaipurapura.co.nz, or call 09 415 9468 and pencil in your booking this week.

Don’t delay. Spaces will fill fast for this summer!

Facebook – So Many Likes in Such a Short Time

Well, you’re obviously enjoying the soupçons of information on our Facebook page at the moment. We’re getting many reads and many, many likes, thank you!

If you haven’t already checked out our new Facebook page, why not head there now and press ‘Like.’ Every ‘Like’ helps.

www.facebook.com/mariamontessorieducationfoundation

 

Screen Time – Is it Addictive?

Talking of screen time… most of us have experienced how an intentional short spell of TV watching at the end of the day to unwind or relax keeps you up later than you’d ever intended. Or the scenario of “I’ll just check my emails…” and before you know it several hours have passed?

Screen time - albeit via any manner of electronic device can be additive. Here’s a compelling article (and cartoon!) about the effects of such on the young - still developing – brain: http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/mental-wealth/201402/gray-matters-too-much-screen-time-damages-the-brain

Ka kite ano,

MMEF

PS: When should you apply for the 2015- 2017 AMI 3-6 Course? Now! Applications are open until the end of October 2014, but spaces are filling fast.

Visit mmef.org.nz to download the Course brochure or email mmef@ihug.co.nz for more information.

Fuelling the Flame Within: Montessori Education and the Development of the Self

Steven Hughes is a paediatric neuropsychologist who was so impressed at what he saw in his daughter’s Montessori school – so intrigued at how beautifully the Montessori system reinforces a child’s growth and natural brain development – that he joined the company: lending his considerable ability to the Association Montessori International Global Research Committee and travelling the world to talk about their work.
Last night he spoke to an Auckland audience of 300 about the way Montessori education “fuels the flame” of each child's unique identity, and how mainstream education helps snuff it out:

Beginning as a tiny spark, the light that shines within a child will, over time, grow to become a steady, strong flame if he or she experiences an environment that recognizes, respects, and fuels it. What are the requisite features of such an environment? What makes Montessori education so effective in "fuelling the flame" of each child's unique identity? 
    Part of Dr. Montessori's genius was her understanding that human development requires different experiences at different stages of development. In this lecture, Dr. Steve Hughes will explore how the environments provided at each plane of Montessori education support the formation of essential aspects of cognitive capabilities known as "executive functions." These capabilities are necessary for the creation of curious, creative, moral, inspired, and inspiring adults—people in whom the light of identity burns bright and warm.

This is a shorter version of the magical talk we heard last night. I highly recommend it.

• Download a PDF of the lecture slides from tinyurl.com/HughesAMS2013Keynote.
• More lectures and info at Steve’s websites www.GoodAtDoingThings.Com and www.BuildingBetterBrains.Com.

And if you’re inspired to think about becoming a Montessori teacher—or if you know someone who would be -- you’re in luck: there’s an AMI diploma course kicking off in Auckland this summer …

Happy Birthday Maria Montessori!

Last week, many of us around the world remembered and celebrated Maria Montessori’s birthday on August 31st, 1870.

How fortunate are we that her legacy is still thriving today!

Why a 3-summer-format course?

Many students have welcomed the news that MMEF are offering a 3-summer- format course, starting this summer - January 2015.

This chosen format is in response to a need to have AMI training accessible to those working or possibly already studying. The summer format dates coincide with the start of the university year.

Here’s a well crafted video about AMI teacher training too – enjoy!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLrW2H5VtVA#t=168

Recent Montessori Research from Australia

If you’re anything like me, I’m often asked for the research to show how Montessori children fare alongside their non-Montessori peers? Well, here’s a recent research paper courtesy of the Montessori Australia Foundation (MAF) showing just that!

The primary focus of this research was to identify how well the children enrolled in Montessori schools scored on the Australian Early Development Index (AEDI) in comparison to the national average. Click on the link below to download the pdf.

https://www.dropbox.com/s/wjo2o16vdypygu9/MAF2012AEDIResearchPaper.pdf?dl=0

Maria Montessori Education Foundation on Facebook

Yes, it’s true! Visit our Facebook page, like us and ask all your friends to do the same!

 

https://www.facebook.com/mariamontessorieducationfoundation

Ka kite ano,

MMEF

When should you apply for the 2015- 2017 AMI 3-6 Course? Now! Applications open until the end of October 2014.

Visit mmef.org.nz to download the Course brochure or email mmef@ihug.co.nz for more information.

Looking for Staff? Why not Sponsor someone to study the AMI 3-6 Diploma starting this summer

MMEF trustee, Tia Wooller has had many a lively, pleasurable and thought provoking discussion with the 3rd year students at AUT this year. They will graduate at the end of 2014 and of the 20 students ALL of them want to work in Montessori environments!

Many of them are really keen to study for the AMI 3-6 Diploma and some willing to relocate anywhere in New Zealand!

Tia spoke to the students about the prospect of school sponsorships. The benefits for schools considering this investment are; they’ll have a provisionally registered  B.Ed. graduate, and when the graduates start with your school at the beginning of March 2015 they will already be a third of the way through their AMI 3-6 training!

If this is something of interest to your school please let MMEF know mmef@ihug.co.nz and we will pass your contact details to the students, who in turn can communicate with you directly.

A Fresh Montessori Website For You

Visit the online resource tool for Montessori teachers. The website has been established by Association Montessori Internationale/USA. Here’s a delightful short video entitled ‘peer to peer learning’ which highlights the socially cohesive nature of a mixed-aged Montessori community.  Make yourself a cup of tea and watch as the children communicate and collaborate joyfully and harmoniously.

http://montessoriguide.org/elementary-age-work-1/.

Note Taking by Hand Aids Memory – its True!

For those of you studying, about to or simply debating whether to take down those notes on your laptop or use the  old fashioned pen and paper method, read on…

Recent research carried out by Indiana University confirms what author and psychologist Stanislas Dehaene has been saying for years - that certain parts of the brain are activated as we write by hand. This brain activity helps us to retain information too!

Another interesting read that I stumbled across and in connection with handwriting can be read by clicking on this link…

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/06/03/science/whats-  lost-as-handwriting-fades.html

Ka kite ano,

MMEF

Applications now open for the 2015- 2017 AMI 3-6 Course. Visit mmef.org.nz to download the Course brochure or email mmef@ihug.co.nz for more information.

APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN FOR AMI 3-6 DIPLOMA COURSE, AUCKLAND 2015-2017

We are delighted to announce that the course brochure, application form, course schedule & fees for the course starting Summer 2014 are now available at mmef.org.nz.

Don’t delay, download the MMEF Information Pack today and apply for the 3-6 course, starting this summer!

We are currently tweaking our website, in the meantime click on the Enrolments tab and you’ll see the downloads.

We are thrilled with the venue for the course and we know that places will go VERY fast. Don’t miss out!

Complete your application today as interviews are being arranged now.

Ka kite ano,

MMEF

Visit mmef.org.nz and click on the MMEF blog for latest course news.

 

ANNOUNCING VENUE FOR AMI 3-6 DIPLOMA COURSE, AUCKLAND 2015-2017

Kawai Purapura Retreat Centre, Albany, Auckland

We are delighted to announce the venue for the AMI 3-6 Diploma course starting this summer!

      

Kawai Purapura is nestled amongst acres of sprawling and terraced landscape and just 20 minutes north of Auckland CBD.

The ambience and carefully crafted spaces provide the perfect setting for our next AMI Diploma Course, and we couldn’t be more thrilled!

The retreat centre has become one of New Zealand’s most popular destinations for retreats, conferences and seminars in natural health, environmental awareness and spiritual development. http://www.kawaipurapura.co.nz/venue/retreat-centre

Kawai Purapura is also connected to the adjacent Council Reserve land with streams and walks and mature native trees, including the magnificent Kahikatea. The perfect place for winding down.

Accommodation on Site!

Kawai Purapura Retreat Centre offers twin share accommodation. MMEF students will be eligible for the discounted rate of $22/p.p per night in a twin share room. Go to www.kawaipurapura.co.nz/retreat- accommodation-2 for more information.

Other benefits include; nature walks, swimming pool and spa, light and spacious areas for contemplation and reading, self-catering facilities - plus discounted yoga classes!

You can even take a walk at dusk and enjoy an extraordinary display by the glow worms. 

This will be a delightful place to learn, and grow.

The 2015 – 2017 course brochure and application form will be on-line shortly

Keep an eye on www.mmef.org.nz for updates and news as it happens!

Announcing Course Dates for AMI 3-6 Diploma 2015–2017

We are delighted to announce the course dates for the AMI 3-6 Diploma course starting this summer!

Summer Format

The course will consist of 3 summers (24 weeks) during January & February 2015 – 2017, plus 10 weeks of observation and teaching practice to be completed in environments designated by the Director of Training and in accordance with AMI.

Course Dates

2015

Monday 5^th January to Friday 9^th January

Monday 12^th January to Friday 16^th January

Monday 19^th January to Friday 23^rd January

Tuesday 27^th January to Saturday 31^st January (26^th Jan. Auckland Anniversary)

Monday 2^nd February to Thursday 5^th February (6^th Feb. Waitangi Day)

Monday 9^th February to Saturday 14^th February

Monday 16^th February to Saturday 21^st February

Monday 23^rd February to Thursday 26^th February

2016

January 4th 2016 – 26th February 2016

2017

January 3rd – 24th February 2017

(MMEF reserves the right to make minor date changes)

Venue

Exciting developments are underway regarding the venue with accommodation on site.

Further details re: venue, faculty and course fees to be announced shortly. Watch this space!

Keep an eye on www.mmef.org.nz for updates and news as it happens!

Ka kite ano,

MMEF

Maria Montessori Education Foundation News– May/June 2014

 Assistant Certificate Course – Auckland

 

31 enthusiastic and enquiring students recently gathered for a 9-day Assistant Certificate Course at Auckland University of Technology (AUT).

Philippa Romig, Auxiliary AMI Trainer travelled from Switzerland and Carol Potts, MMEF, delivered the lecturers and guided many a thought provoking discussion.

MMEF’s thanks and appreciation goes to Philippa Romig for succinctly and interestingly conveying Montessori theory and practice and to AUT for their support with the provision of an expansive and ideally facilitated space for the course.

Dr Steven Hughes Returns to New Zealand!

Many of you will have received this exciting news by post – it’s true! MMEF and AUT will be hosting a public address given by Steven Hughes - ‘Igniting the Flame – Montessori Education and the Development of the Self’ on Thursday September 11th at AUT at 7.00-9.00p.m.

The event will appeal to anyone with an interest and belief in the enormous potential of children.

Tickets - only $10!! - can be purchased from carlihausler@gmail.com

Another event is currently being arranged in Warkworth/Matakana for Wednesday 10th September. For more details email totarahillmontessori@xtra.co.nz

The ‘Pearls’ at the Asian 3-6 Seminar Series

    

In May,  21 trainers in training – affectionately named the ‘Pearls’ - from 7 countries re-gathered for the 2^nd seminar of the AMI Asian 3-6

Seminar Series in the land where the daily greeting for many is Namaste.

The definition of this greeting seems to succinctly convey the spirituality

of the people and the warmth of the land said, New Zealand’s trainer in

training, Carol Potts.

I honour the place in you where Spirit lives, I honour the place in you which is of Love, of Truth, of Light, of Peace, when you are in that place in you, and I am in that place in me, then we are One.

“The atmosphere and significance of being in India, a place where Montessori finally formulated her ideas on the Human Tendencies, is both palpable and poignant.

Hyderabad is a sensorial delight of smells, tastes, sounds, sights and textures. We all thrived on the intensity of the study (the food!) and the philosophical discussions!” said Carol.

The photo depicts participants of the 2^nd AMI Training of Trainers

Asian Seminar hosted in Hyderabad, together with seminar leader Janet McDonell and AMI trainer Ruby Lau.

The 1^st seminar was led by Dr Annette Haines.

4th Assembly of Educateurs sans Frontières – Thailand

In respect of the current political situation in Thailand, we deeply regret to inform you that the 4th Assembly of Educateurs sans Frontières stands cancelled this year. It has been postponed to 2015.
This was a difficult decision, and one that was made only after careful consideration, consultation with local sources in Thailand, and monitoring of travel advisories posted on governmental websites. Based on the travel warnings issued by the various governments, the continuing political uncertainty, and the restrictions on internal movements in the country, it was determined that travel to Thailand is not advisable during this period.
The Assembly is now rescheduled for July/August 2015, to be held at the in Thailand at the same venue: Hotel Inpawa in Khon Kaen. More details will be sent to you when they become available.

Please email mmef@ihug.co.nz with your comments, thoughts and suggestions.

Ka Kite,

MMEF

 

 

Here’s to a Peaceful & Prosperous 2014!

*Happy New Year * Te Tau Hou Hari *

 *Xin Nian Kuai Le*

Now that you're back to school, you may be refreshing, reflecting and reducing some of those extraneous materials that crept onto your shelves at the end of 2013. To bring you back to what is important and what needs to go back to the storeroom – here’s another article by Angeline Lillard entitled  'How Important are the Montessori Materials'. It’s a timely read for this time of the year. http://www.montessorisociety.org.uk/article/how-important-are-montessori-materials.

A.M.I. Assistant Certificate Course – April 2014
A reminder that the Early Bird Discount for the A.M.I. Assistant Certificate Course ends on February 28th, don’t miss out! 
Visit mmef.org.nz to register on-line.We’ve received many enquiries, several from potential attendees looking for accommodation in the area. If you’re from out of town,planning to attend and looking to share accommodation send us an email  and we can put you in contact with each other.

An Interesting New Website to Browse
This website was launched at the beginning of the year by AMI USA. http://montessoriguide.org. I would recommend a visit to the site to watch some priceless snippets of quality Montessori in action at the different age levels 0-3, 3-6, 6-12. These short videos could be a perfect starter for discussion at your staff meetings;)

Have a fabulous start to 2014!

Please email mmef@ihug.co.nz with your comments, thoughts and suggestions. 

Ka Kite, 

M.M.E.F.