MMEF Highlights to Close the Year & Opportunities for You in 2024

 

Kia Ora Koutou MMEF Supporters,

As the year draws gradually to a close, we'd love to update you on some of the recent MMEF highlights and a look ahead to events tailored to you next year.

Hasn't the year been an active one in the early childhood sphere? Challenging, eventful, and productive in somewhat unequal measures! 

We hope you can soon enjoy a little time to pause, relax, reflect on the year that was, and look forward to a raft of new experiences in 2024.

The AMI 3-6 Diploma is exactly halfway through now, and we'd love to thank all the 3-6 environments that have hosted our learners this year for observation and teaching practice placements. You have been invaluably supportive and encouraging; we could not do what we do without your support, and we thank you enormously. 

The next 3-6 Diploma module runs from January 8th until February 2nd, and we'll be traversing mathematics. Kia Kaha to our learners who are working tirelessly as part of their commitment to supporting the optimal development of young tamariki.

If any 3-6 Diploma holders would like a material refresher, you are most welcome to join us for a session or two during the next module. Simply email mmef3-6diploma@outlook.com, let us know which material you would like to see represented, and we'll book you in.  

MMEF Achieves NZQA Category 1 Status Again

Every 4 years, a little like ERO for early childhood centers, the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) evaluates all N.Z. tertiary providers (External Evaluation Review, EER). Two evaluators joined us for 2 days during our last module, and we're delighted to convey that MMEF received the highest outcome possible once again. NZQA rated us as 'Highly Confident' in Educational Performance and Self-Assessment Capability. Thank you to our learners and stakeholders who were happy to be interviewed by NZQA; this is a fantastic high note on which to conclude the year. You can read the full EER report on our website here.

0-3 Orientation Certificate ONLINE - January 30th - March 1st, 2024

If you or anyone you know works alongside babies, infants, and little people under the age of three, the forthcoming AMI 0-3 Orientation Certificate starting in January is certainly one to register for! 

It is perfectly suited to parents, whānau, and professionals working with tamariki under the age of three years. AMI 0-3 trainer Julia Hilson & AMI 0-3 trainer in training Carli Hausler will facilitate the course, focusing on supporting the phenomenal development during the first three years of life.

The dates are January 30th - March 1st, 2024. Evenings and Saturday mornings to suit those working via Zoom. 

This a reminder to register for the next AMI 0-3 Orientation Certificate before January 8th and receive the early bird discount. Download the course brochure and register online here.

And seeing the photos of these two amazing wāhine toa, they are currently together for the AMI 0-3 Diploma Course in Melbourne. The face-to-face module extends throughout January. Kai kaha to you both and to the learners embarking on this life-changing experience!

Calling all AMI 3-6 & 6-12 Alumni - 'Leading to Melodies & Compositions - The Bells', Workshops

 "Because no one language is rich enough to give expression to the gushing life within...he speaks, he writes, he draws, he sings like a nightingale in the springtime."    

                                             ~ Montessori, Adv. Montessori Method Vol. 11, pg. 295  Photo courtesy of Forest Bluff Montessori School 

Pairing, grading, and introducing the language of the bells are wonderful experiences in the 3-6 environment, wouldn't you agree? Did you know there is much more we can introduce sensorially with this exquisite material, like the staff boards, the note names, and the placement of notes thus gradually leading our musically inclined tamariki to compose their own melodies and read simple musical compositions? How much fun could that be?!

MMEF is thrilled to offer these further extensions of Writing & Reading with the Bells next year via workshops in two locations. AMI alumni have frequently asked for this, as these extensions are not always included in the 3-6 Diploma but rather offered via workshops later.  Note - AMI 6-12 Alumni, this could also be a wee refresher for you.

MMEF will offer two short and sweet 1/2-day workshops next year. 

- Wā Ora Montessori School, Lower Hutt, Wellington on Sat.9th March, 9-12.30p.m.

- St John's Montessori School, Saint Johns, Auckland on Sat. 25th May 9-12.30p.m.

The online registration form is available here.

And finally, thank you for your ongoing support of MMEF during the year ~ kia ora rawa atu. 

And to all those who will be extremely thankful to farewell 2023:

'Kia ekengia te waka i runga i te moana pukepuke - the sea may be rocky, but it can still be navigated.'

Wishing you all a peaceful, joyful, healthy Christmas and a purposeful, productive, and fulfilling 2024.

Ngā manaakitanga,

MMEF

Photo courtesy of Glendowie Montessori Preschool

Workshops and More 2023 - 2024

Kia ora Koutou MMEF Supporters,

Isn't it delightful to see a little sunshine - hopefully, the countrywide long-term forecast is correct on this occasion, and Spring really is on its way!  

With a spring in our step, we're delighted to let you know about a few workshops fast approaching this year and dates for the next AMI Orientation Certificates in 2024. 

'Marvelous Movement' Workshop with AMI 0-3 trainer Sara Brady

September 30th @11.00 -1.00p.m.via ZOOM.

There’s still time to register for the 0-3 MANZ/MMEF workshop as we explore the stages of equilibrium and the milestones that lay the foundations of MARVELOUS MOVEMENT!
Don’t miss the myriad of practical ideas for preparing the optimum physical and psychological environment required for society’s youngest.
MANZ & MMEF are thrilled to be bringing you this engaging workshop as we explore movement opportunities during the first three years of life and how to avoid becoming an obstacle to development. https://www.montessori.org.nz/.../pld-0-3-years...

We were not born to think. We were born to move. Human creative ideas are nothing in the absence of the manual dexterity that allows tools to be made, complex architecture to be constructed, art to be created, and instruments to be played. ~ Koziol, et al, 2012.

Fabulous Fractions  - Thursday, October 5th 6.00- 8.30p.m.via Zoom

This enticing and engaging piece of material can often be underutilised in the 3-6 environment - join us as we explore the span of experiences that can be offered with the Fabulous Fractions.

This event may well serve as a 'taster' for those interested in the next AMI 3-6 Diploma. It will also be a refresher for our MMEF Alumni, plus a hearty thank you to our tireless supporters who have helped us to set up the Montessori training environment for each module. Yes, we finally made this happen! To read more - visit the MMEF website here and to register online, click here.

Montessori 101 - What You Need to Know - November 1st, 8th & 15th 6.30-8.30p.m. via Zoom

Following our conversations with many of you at the Montessori Aotearoa Conference in July, we're offering this trilogy of workshops once again in November. 

Spanning three sessions, we will explore:
• Montessori Principles – Aids to Development
• The Prepared Adult
• The Prepared Environment (focusing on 2.6 - 6 years)

These workshops have been designed for:
- E.C.E. kaiako working in a Montessori environment
- parents, whānau & professionals collaborating with those 2.6 - 6 years
- and anyone considering AMI training in the future.
Register online here.

Dates for Your Diaries - 2024

The next AMI 0-3 Orientation Certificate with AMI 0-3 Trainer Julia Hilson & Trainer in Training Carli Hausler is scheduled for 30th January - 1st March 2024, 1-2 evenings per week plus some Saturday mornings - via Zoom. The registration form will be available soon.

The next AMI 3-6 Orientation certificate with AMI 3-6 Trainer Carol Potts - 13th August - 15th September 2024, 2 evenings per week via Zoom. Please more the dates.

Ngā manaakitanga,

MMEF 

 

Kia Ora Koutou MMEF Supporters

We hope you've had a little time to play, read, sing, or whatever brings you joy, plus reflect on your achievements of 2022. 

Amidst the challenges of last year, there were certainly highlights too, professional and personal, and we hope you've taken a moment to relive these, albeit for some, during your relatively short break.

Now looking forward - a new year, new information, and many new learning opportunities to consider!

AMI 3-6 Diploma Information Eve. Tuesday 7th February @ 7.00p.m (NZDT) on Zoom.

  

Are you considering studying for the Association Montessori Internationale (A.M.I.) Diploma starting April 3rd, in Auckland? There is still time to apply! Join Carol Potts, Director of Training to find out about the course details. Past students will also join us, to share their experiences and tips for study success. Meeting ID: 821 8592 1235. Passcode: 838001. By way of RSVP, please text your name and centre/school name to MMEF 021 111 4133. In the meantime, click here for course dates, venue & application details, and follow us on Facebook.

Montessori 101~What You Need to Know

'Montessori 101~ What You Need to Know ' comprises three 2-hour sessions online in February 2023 with 3-6 trainer Carol Potts.

These short, pithy sessions have been designed for those new to Montessori and ECE kaiāko working in a Montessori environment. Also, parents and whānau seeking more understanding about this unique approach to development.

Professionals, including centre managers and admin staff, and those profoundly interested in development during the first six years of life would gain from this, plus anyone considering studying for the AMI 3-6 Diploma.

Wednesday, February 8th, 15th & 22nd @ 6.30-8.30p.m. via Zoom.
Cost: $100 (inc., all three sessions); each one will build on the previous session.
Click here for more information and register online here.

0-3 Orientation Certificate, February - March 

Bravo, for those of you who have already registered for the next 0-3 Orientation Certificate with AMI 0-3 trainer, Julia Hilson. This course will now be 100% online, and the good news is - there are still places available!
Visit the MMEF website here for full course details and to register online here.

3-6 Orientation Certificate, May 

The next 3-6 Orientation Certificate will be offered May 8th-31st early evenings plus two Saturday mornings with 3-6 trainer, Carol Potts. The course will follow an online format and at a time to suit those working - please save the dates now!

This course is suitable for those seeking a further understanding of the Montessori approach to tamaiti development plus Montessori centre owners, administrators, and ECE-trained kaiako/teachers in a Montessori setting. Also, for parents, whānau, nannies, carers, and professionals working with young tamariki. For anyone considering studying for the 3-6 Diploma in the future, this course offers the ideal pathway. 
Download the course registration form here and register online here. Ensure to register before April 21st, 2023, to be eligible for early bird registration.

'Marvelous Movement' Workshop with 0-3 trainer Sara Brady~ Sept. 30th ONLINE

“We were not born to think. We were born to move. Human creative ideas are nothing in the absence of the manual dexterity that allows tools to be made, complex architecture to be constructed, art to be created, and instruments to be played.” ~ Koziol, et al, 2012.

MANZ & MMEF are thrilled to bring you this engaging workshop as we explore movement opportunities during the first three years of life and how to avoid becoming an obstacle to development. Click here for further details and to register online.

All the best for a peaceful, purposeful and productive 2023,

Kia kaha, kia maia, kia manua nui,

MMEF