Montessori teacher
Montessori teachers help very young children to grow in confidence, and learn at their own pace.
Salary range: £18,000 to £30,000
How to become a Montessori teacher
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- working towards this role
University
You could do a foundation degree or degree in any subject and then train as a Montessori teacher.
You could also study a diploma, foundation degree or degree in Montessori early childhood practice. This would include theory and practical work-based placements.
Courses can be flexible and offer a mix of classroom-based and online study.
Entry requirements
You’ll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
More information
- equivalent entry requirements
- student finance for fees and living costs
- university courses and entry requirements
Work
You can train as a Montessori classroom assistant then move on to a teacher training course. You’ll need to study for a Montessori qualification with a recognised training provider.
To get into this job you’ll need a good general standard of education, with passes in English and maths.
Some employers may prefer you to have a level 3 qualification in early years.
Volunteering and experience
You’ll find it useful to get as much work experience with children as possible. It will help you get a better understanding of the career, and you’ll make contacts who could help when looking for work.
More information
Career tips
Many people start Montessori training after working in other careers, not related to working with children or in education.
Further information
You can find out more about becoming a Montessori teacher from the Maria Montessori Institute and Montessori Society AMI UK.
You can explore different types of courses and ways to train through the Montessori Group.
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You’ll need:
- knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- the ability to work well with others
- sensitivity and understanding
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- to be flexible and open to change
- knowledge of English language
- excellent verbal communication skills
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
Restrictions and requirements
You’ll need to:
- pass enhanced background checks
- be over 17 years of age
What you’ll do
Day-to-day tasks
You may:
- plan a programme of work and activities
- prepare the learning areas and resources, and make sure they’re safe
- watch the children and make notes on their progress and any issues
- make sure all children have equal chances to learn
- support and involve parents
- look after sick or injured children
- help children with dressing and undressing when needed
- feed children when required
- attend staff meetings
- keep records and write reports
Working environment
You could work at a school or in a nursery.
Your working environment may be physically and emotionally demanding.
Career path and progression
If you’re a teacher or early years practitioner in a state school, you could use Montessori methods to broaden your professional practice.
With experience, you could become a nursery manager, assistant headteacher or headteacher. You could also become an area manager for a group of schools or train other Montessori teachers.
You may be able to set up your own school, or take on a franchise either in the UK or overseas.