Offering Montessori Philosophy and Cambridge Curriculum
Curriculum
Our Approach
Montessori philosophy
The Montessori philosophy, developed by Dr. Maria Montessori in the early 20th century, is an educational approach that emphasizes the natural development of children through a carefully prepared environment and self-directed learning. At its core, the Montessori method recognizes the unique potential of each child and aims to foster independence, creativity, and a love for learning. Dr. Montessori believed that children learn best when they are actively engaged in purposeful activities that align with their natural developmental stages. The Montessori classroom is designed to facilitate this process, with carefully chosen materials and activities that cater to the child's evolving needs.
In a Montessori environment, the role of the teacher is that of a guide or facilitator rather than a traditional instructor. Teachers observe each child's individual interests, strengths, and challenges, providing guidance and support when needed. The philosophy encourages a sense of community and respect, as children of different ages often share the same learning space. This multi-age grouping allows for peer learning and collaboration, fostering a sense of responsibility and empathy among the children.
Montessori education places a strong emphasis on the development of practical life skills, sensorial exploration, and academic pursuits. The approach recognizes the interconnectedness of various areas of learning and encourages a holistic approach to education. By focusing on the child's innate curiosity and providing a nurturing environment, the Montessori philosophy aims to cultivate a lifelong love for learning and a foundation for well-rounded development.
Cambridge Approach
The Cambridge Curriculum, developed by the University of Cambridge, is an internationally recognized and widely adopted educational framework that spans primary to secondary levels. Known for its rigorous standards and emphasis on critical thinking, the Cambridge Curriculum is designed to prepare students for academic success and equip them with essential skills for the future. One of the key features of the Cambridge Curriculum is its focus on inquiry-based learning, encouraging students to actively engage with the subject matter, question assumptions, and develop a deep understanding of concepts.
At the heart of the Cambridge Curriculum is the commitment to fostering a holistic education that goes beyond traditional subject boundaries. The curriculum is structured to promote a well-rounded development, encompassing not only academic knowledge but also critical skills such as communication, research, and problem-solving. The emphasis on international perspectives and global awareness reflects the Cambridge Curriculum's commitment to preparing students for a diverse and interconnected world, promoting cultural understanding and open-mindedness.
Another distinctive aspect of the Cambridge Curriculum is its emphasis on continuous assessment and feedback. Rather than relying solely on end-of-year exams, the curriculum incorporates various assessment methods, including coursework, projects, and practical assessments. This approach aims to provide a comprehensive evaluation of a student's abilities, encouraging a deeper and more nuanced understanding of the subject matter. The Cambridge Curriculum has gained popularity worldwide, with many schools and educational institutions adopting its principles to deliver a high-quality and globally relevant education.
Skills for the 21st century
A commitment to cultivating essential skills in students.
In the 21st century, the rapidly evolving landscape of technology and globalization has given rise to a set of skills that are crucial for success in both academic and professional realms. These skills, often referred to as 21st-century skills, include critical thinking, creativity, communication, collaboration, adaptability, and digital literacy. Montessori and Cambridge education philosophies, while distinct, share a commitment to cultivating these essential skills in students.
Montessori education, puts its emphasis on child-centered learning.
Montessori education, with its emphasis on child-centered learning, inherently promotes critical thinking and creativity. Through hands-on activities and self-directed exploration, children in Montessori classrooms learn to solve problems independently, think critically about concepts, and unleash their creativity in various subject areas. The emphasis on practical life skills and social development also lays the groundwork for effective communication and collaboration. The Montessori approach recognizes the importance of nurturing the whole child, ensuring they not only excel academically but also develop into well-rounded individuals equipped with the skills necessary for success in the 21st century.
The Cambridge curriculum is designed to foster 21st-century skills.
Similarly, the Cambridge curriculum is designed to foster 21st-century skills by integrating them into subject-specific learning experiences. The emphasis on research skills, critical analysis, and effective communication is embedded across subjects, encouraging students to engage with content in a meaningful way. Collaborative projects and interactive learning experiences are incorporated to develop teamwork and communication skills. Furthermore, the Cambridge curriculum recognizes the significance of digital literacy, integrating technology into the learning process to prepare students for the digital demands of the modern world. Both Montessori and Cambridge education share a commitment to shaping students who are not only academically proficient but also possess the adaptability and skills needed to navigate the complexities of the 21st century.
Our School Programmes
An overview for all of our school programmes in Paarl and Wellington
Preschool
Paarl Campus
4 months - 6 years old
Carnegie House Preschool in Paarl is spilt up into the following categories:
The Nest – Babies, 4 months to 16 months
The Den – Toddlers, 16 months to 3 years
The Hive – Children, 3 years to 6 years
The Aviary – Children of 6 years old
The Preschool in Paarl offers an authentic Montessori experience for all children. The Montessori preschool environment is a carefully crafted space designed to cater to the unique developmental needs of young children. In our Montessori preschool, you'll find a thoughtfully prepared classroom filled with engaging, age-appropriate materials placed on accessible shelves. The layout encourages independent exploration, with child-sized furniture and a variety of hands-on activities that stimulate the senses and foster the development of fine and gross motor skills. The emphasis on order and beauty creates an inviting atmosphere that promotes concentration and a sense of calm, contributing to a positive learning environment. In this setting, children are encouraged to move freely, make choices based on their interests, and engage in self-directed learning. The Montessori preschool environment is a nurturing space that values each child's uniqueness, promoting a love for learning and laying the foundation for a lifetime of curiosity and discovery.
Primary School
Paarl & Wellington Campus
6 years old - 13 years old (Gr 1- 7)
The Primary schools offer a beautifully presented and educationally robust environment for children from Grade 1 to Grade 7.
The Primary schools are a vibrant and inviting learning environment that captivate the imagination of young minds. From the moment you enter, the atmosphere is one of warmth and creativity, with colourful displays showcasing students’ artwork and educational projects adorning the walls. Classrooms are thoughtfully arranged with child-friendly furniture, engaging learning materials, and interactive displays that inspire curiosity.
The school grounds are well-maintained, featuring green spaces for outdoor activities, a playground designed for both recreation and motor skill development. In this educational haven, teachers are not just instructors but mentors, guiding students through a curriculum that combines academic excellence with real-world applications. The beautifully presented and educationally robust primary school prioritizes a holistic approach to learning, instilling a passion for knowledge, fostering critical thinking, and nurturing well-rounded individuals poised for future success.
LEARNING AREAS FOR THE 6-12 YEAR OLD CLASS · Numeracy, Maths and Geometry.· Language, Literacy and Communication.· Life Skills and Orientation.· Literature and Poetry.· Afrikaans and isiXhosa.· Entrepreneurship.· History.· Geography.· Science, Zoology, Biology and Botany.· Computer Literacy and Coding· The Peace Programme – teaching tolerance, respect and conflict resolution.· Creative Expression and Art.· Music Appreciation and Music.· Physical Education and a range of games leading to the development of sporting skills
The Primary schools are registered with the Western Cape Department of Education, which align with national standards and ,ensures curriculum coherence through collaboration with the Independent Schools Association (ISASA) and participation in NAISA (National Alliance of Independent Schools Associations).
High School Hub
Wellington Campus
12 years old - 19 years old (Gr 8- 12)
Our student-centered, academically robust, and community-driven High school epitomizes an educational institution that prioritizes individual growth, academic excellence, and community engagement.
The High School is designed to empower students as active participants in their learning journey, with classrooms configured to foster collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity. The curriculum is dynamic and challenging, offering a wide range of academic subjects as well as opportunities for practical, real-world applications. Teachers serve not only as educators but as mentors, guiding students to discover and pursue their passions.
The high school’s commitment to academic rigor is complemented by a strong sense of community. The school actively encourages student involvement in extracurricular activities, community service projects, and collaborative initiatives, fostering a sense of responsibility and social awareness. In this enriching environment, students not only excel academically but also develop a strong sense of civic duty, leadership skills, and a deep connection to the school community
Sport
Physical Education in the Preschools
All the children in the Preschools participate in a PE education programme once a week. The PE programme is developmentally appropriate and the preschool children develop body and spatial awareness and practice and refine their emerging motor skills, which contributes to the likelihood that they will become lifelong movers. The focus is on participation and fun.
Physical Education in the Primary Schools
The Primary school children participate in Physical Education activities twice per week during school hours. Specifically the children are exposed to a wide range of physical games and sports – from swimming to dodge-ball, cricket, soccer and athletics. Additional PE and sports are offered by independent providers in both Paarl and Wellington areas. Carnegie House children have participated in swimming galas, athletic meets as well as cricket and soccer matches and participate with enthusiasm and joy.
Support Systems
Our commitment to inclusivity
Support for children with diverse behaviour and potential learning barriers.
Collaborative approach among educators, support staff, and parents to provide valuable insight on child’s strength and areas that require additional attention.
Training for teachers to recognize and understand behaviour patterns to tailor their instructional stragetgies.
Part-time counsellor who works closely with teachers and children to support emotional and mental health challenges.
Personalization and proactive support
Offer personalized learning plans and differentiated instruction for varying academic levels and learning paces
External recommendation for speech therapists or occupational therapists to support students and teachers.
Fostering a culture of empathy, understanding and proactive support.
Parent Communications
Effective communication between parents and teachers is fundamental to a child’s academic success and well-being
Transparent and regular channels of communication to build a strong partnership between home and school
Regular parent-teacher conferences
Timely and clear communication regarding academic expectations, classroom activities and challenges.
Various communication channels such as, newsletters, emails, and online platforms.
Promote collaborative and supportive relationships between teachers and parents to create a positive educational experience for the child.
Start your child’s adventure here!
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