Abstract/Notes: The Montessori philosophy and environment offers opportunities for free movement within the classroom. Physical development includes the acquisition of fundamental movement skills (FMS) which children acquire through different opportunities for movement. Previous research has shown that Montessorian pre-schoolers were more physically active during the school day compared to those attending traditional pre-schools. This led to questioning whether this noted increase in physical activity had any effect on the learning of FMS. The purpose of this study was to examine the proficiency of FMS of children aged 3–6 years in three private Montessori pre-schools. This purposive sample consisted of 105 Montessori 3–6 year olds in the Western Cape, South Africa. FMS were evaluated using the Test of Gross Motor Development Second Edition (TGMD-2). About 51.6% of the 3 year olds mastered run but scored in the poor category for five out of the six object control skills. The majority of 4 year olds (75.7%) reached mastery only in run. Most of the 5 year olds achieved mastery in run (69%) and slide (65.5%), and only 51.7% in kick. About 87.5% of the 6 year olds achieved mastery in run and slide, only half of them in leap, hop, kick and catch. No area of FMS were mastered by all the participants, but overall, the performance ranged from ‘average’ to ‘above average’. This shows potential for improvement in FMS proficiency. Therefore, children, even in a Montessori environment, require specific instruction to achieve proficiency of all FMS.

Language: English

DOI: 10.1177/1476718X241241141

ISSN: 1476-718X

Abstract/Notes: The linguistic environment of preschools in South Africa is considerably under-researched. In this study, research was undertaken to discover how South African Montessori preschool teachers approach the issue of multilingualism in their classrooms and their perceptions of the value of speaking multiple languages. Teachers working in Montessori schools in Cape Town were interviewed about their experiences and ideologies of multilingualism in the classroom. Data was analysed through a Bakhtinian lens to uncover the tensions surrounding these beliefs and experiences of South African multilingualism. It was found that although many teachers supported the idea of multilingualism, they faced significant practical and administrative barriers to its implementation in the classroom. Furthermore, it was notable that much of the work to teach or introduce additional language in the preschool space was performed by underpaid, undertrained, and under-valued non-teaching staff, such as cleaning staff and classroom assistants.

Language: English

Published: Stellenbosch, South Africa, 2023

Language: English

ISSN: 1071-6246

Language: English

Published: [S.I.], 1995

Language: English

Published: [S.I.], 2008

Abstract/Notes: Discusses the history of the Montessori movement in South Africa. Outlines the contributions and learnings from Montessori's 21 years in South Africa. Asserts that Montessorian actions in Africa have relevance to Montessori internationally. (JS)

Language: English

ISSN: 1522-9734

Abstract/Notes: Includes mentions of: Mrs. Leigh; Miss Constance Marriott; "Mrs. Leigh persuaded Miss Marriott to come out to South Africa, and in Ocxtober 1916, the first Montessori School was started in this sub-continent"; "The Home School comprises thge Montessori Garden Day School of 40 pupils and the Children's Hostel (the first of it's kind in South Africa), which can accommodate 20 children, from 2 years of age to 10 for boys and 12 for girls."

Language: English

Abstract/Notes: This study constitutes an attempt to describe and analyse the quality of selected early childhood development programmes in South Africa, and provide criteria by which the quality of programmes could be assessed. The need for, and importance of, providing quality early childhood development programmes is highlighted. The influence of educational pf:lilosophies on programmes is recognised, hence the total development of the child and educational philosophies related thereto are discussed. Factors and components within programmes that contribute to high quality are explored. Moreover, criteria by means of which quality early childhood development programmes may be assessed, are provided. In this regard criteria for the formulation of aims, selection and the organisation of content, assessment, role of the teacher and parent involvement in programmes are suggested. It is against these criteria that selected early childhood development programmes in South Africa are described and analysed. programmes conclude the study.

Language: English

Published: Pretoria, South Africa, 1996

Language: English

ISSN: 1071-6246

Abstract/Notes: "I wish to let you know of a [Theosophical Society] educational activity started in Pretoria in charge of our member, Miss E. J. Clarke, Higher Froebel Certificate, and one with a wide experience both in this country and in England. A charming house has been taken, surrounded with beautiful gardens. Here Miss Clarke is conducting a Montessori school for small children..."

Language: English