Preschoolers in Mt Eden have been learning a little bit differently from this year, through the introduction of a new philosophy of teaching at Ficino Preschool.
Ficino Preschool started incorporating Montessori principles into its curriculum from August, providing students with extra opportunities to learn and build their independence. The Preschool has also changed its name to Ficino Montessori Preschool to reflect the extended teaching philosophy.
“Maria Montessori’s philosophy was to build independence in children, by providing them with choices and opportunities to experiment,” says Mrs Dimuthu Jayawardena, Head Teacher at the Ficino Montessori Preschool. “By combining her learning philosophy with our existing focus on mindfulness in children and the Te Whariki New Zealand early childhood curriculum, we believe children will develop all aspects of their character to explore their full potential, giving them the best preparation for school and for life.”
Ficino Preschool has been teaching children aged 3 to 5 years since 2016. Situated adjacent to the Ficino School, which teaches at primary and intermediate levels, the Preschool has a high ratio of teachers to students and the learning programme is based on exploration and practical, hands-on activities.
“We have a great team of registered teachers who have had Montessori training who, together with our specialist facilitators, bring a range of skills including dance, art, music, numeracy and literacy to the Preschool,” continues Mrs Jayawardena. Our strong values-based teaching philosophy helps children master their own behaviour while learning, and the Montessori methods for building independence add an extra dimension to our teaching environment. It’s exciting to see children develop their own skills and explore the world around them, ultimately helping them to develop lifelong skills and become enthusiastic, happy children ready to take on the challenge of school.”
Parents wishing to explore the option of Ficino Montessori Preschool for their children are invited to attend school tours at 29 Esplanade Road, Mt Eden. Children attending the Preschool can also take advantage of Ficino School’s before and after school care programme.
