Montessori
Montessori Education Method
Child-centered educational approach emphasizing independence, freedom within limits, and respect for natural development (ages 3-18)
PROVIDER
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI)
GRADES COVERED
Ages 3-18
ASSESSMENT TYPE
portfolio
FLEXIBILITY LEVEL
high
Complete Grade Structure
Infant Community
Ages 3-6 (Toddler & Casa)
Focus
Sensorial exploration and practical life skills
Subjects
Key Features
- Child-centered, self-directed learning
- Multi-age classroom environments
- Prepared learning environment
- Montessori materials for sensorial exploration
- Development of independence and self-care
- Uninterrupted work cycles (3-hour blocks)
Assessment Methods
Observation by Guide
Portfolio of Work
Milestone Tracking
Parent Conferences
ESTIMATED ANNUAL COST
KES 120,000
USD 920 / GBP 745
TIME COMMITMENT
20 hours/week
Recommended weekly study commitment
Elementary I
Ages 6-9 (Grade 1-3 equivalent)
Focus
Academic fundamentals through hands-on exploration
Subjects
Key Features
- Transition from sensorial to abstract thinking
- Golden Beads for mathematics concepts
- Story-based curriculum introduction
- Great Lessons framework
- Continued multi-age groupings
- Emphasis on discovering connections
Assessment Methods
Work Analysis
Observation Records
Student Portfolios
Progress Narratives
ESTIMATED ANNUAL COST
KES 150,000
USD 1150 / GBP 925
TIME COMMITMENT
22 hours/week
Recommended weekly study commitment
Elementary II
Ages 9-12 (Grade 4-6 equivalent)
Focus
Deep academic exploration and research
Subjects
Key Features
- Continued exploration of academic subjects in depth
- Research and independent projects
- Committee work and collaborative learning
- Preparation for adolescence
- Development of leadership qualities
- Community service emphasis
Assessment Methods
Project Evaluation
Research Assessment
Portfolio Review
Peer & Self-Evaluation
ESTIMATED ANNUAL COST
KES 180,000
USD 1380 / GBP 1110
TIME COMMITMENT
25 hours/week
Recommended weekly study commitment
Adolescent Program
Ages 12-18 (Grade 7-12 equivalent)
Focus
University preparation with continued Montessori philosophy
Subjects
Key Features
- Practical life skills for real-world application
- Work experience and internship opportunities
- Entrepreneurship projects
- Community engagement
- Preparation for university/career
- Continued emphasis on independence and responsibility
Assessment Methods
Work Portfolio
Project Assessment
Community Service Logs
Academic Transcripts
University Entrance Exams
ESTIMATED ANNUAL COST
KES 200,000
USD 1535 / GBP 1240
TIME COMMITMENT
28 hours/week
Recommended weekly study commitment
Subject Offerings
practicalLife
- Food Preparation
- Cleaning
- Gardening
- Care of Self & Environment
sensorialExploration
- Color Tablets
- Sound Bells
- Texture Boards
- Weight Cylinders
academicSubjects
- Mathematics (Beads, Rods)
- Language (Moveable Alphabet)
- Geography (Puzzle Maps)
- Science (Hands-on Experiments)
electives
- Music Lessons
- Art
- Drama
- Technology
- Foreign Languages
University Recognition & Pathways
Kenyan Universities
- Aga Khan University
- Various universities with mature students
Global Universities
- Many accept Montessori graduates
- May require supplementary exams
Recognition Level
Moderate - Recognized by progressive universities, may need additional qualifications for traditional pathways
Strengths & Considerations
Key Strengths
- Fosters self-directed learning and independence
- Develops intrinsic motivation
- Multi-age group learning environments
- Hands-on, experiential approach
- Strong in early childhood development
- Builds executive function and self-regulation
Considerations
- Less structured for standardized exam preparation
- Requires trained Montessori educators
- Transition to traditional schooling can be challenging
Is Montessori Right for Your Family?
Independent learners, early childhood, creative and hands-on learners
Recommended Study Hours Per Week
20
Annual Investment (Approximate)
KES 180,000