OUR TEACHERS

Dee Gordon has taught in both mainstream and Montessori pre-schools and primary schools as well as second language education.  She has  Primary, Montessori and ESOL qualifications. Dee first observed a Montessori class in 1995 and was struck by the atmosphere of calm concentration, quiet satisfaction and independence. She believes that Montessori gives children freedom with responsibilities, a sense of community and social justice, and ultimately, dignity. "Children", she says, "inspire me daily with their simplicity, sense of fun, honesty, capacity for forgiveness and love. I am privileged that I am able to glimpse the world through their eyes as they make their many discoveries".

 

Charlene Jacobs had been teaching for 14 years before starting as a reliever in the Montessori Unit at the start of 2009. Her excitement and enjoyment of the job was evident and she soon realised that Montessori was the part of her career that was missing. She was offered the job on a permanent basis and has now completed her Montessori Diploma. In her words, "Montessori inspires me.  I am intrigued with the fact that I am the guide and not the 'teacher'. I like the freedom the students have to choose their own work, but am aware of the responsibilities that go with it".

 

 

Dawn Young has been a Teachers Assistant in the Montessori Unit since 2005.  In addition she runs the reading programme for new entrants. Like Charlene the attraction of Montessori has grown like a budding flower. "Each day", says Dawn, "there is something new and exciting that blossoms. For me the real heart of Montessori is respect and this is modeled and nurtured in our classroom". Dawn is currently studying part time for a Montessori Primary Teaching Degree at AUT, and works part time in the classroom.