Lower Elementary Montessori Diploma Program

Lower Elementary Montessori Diploma Program

To guide children aged 6 to 9 years (Grade 1 to 3)

It is through work alone that a child develops” – Dr. Maria Montessori

The Lower Elementary Montessori Diploma Program has designated intake start dates annually in January and September.

Next Program Start Date: January 7, 2025

End Date: December 30, 2025

Part-time: 12 month program (approx.)

Orientation:
Tuesday, January 7, 2024:
– 6:00PM to 8:00PM (MST)
– 8:00PM to 10:00PM (EST)

Virtual Lectures:
Weekly on Tuesday evenings:
– 6:00PM to 8:00PM (MST)
– 8:00PM to 10:00PM (EST)

Locations:
– Toronto: 8525 Torbram Rd, Brampton, ON L6T 5K4
– Calgary: 4963 Front Street SE, Calgary, AB, T3M 2M3

Accreditations

Program Overview

The Lower Elementary Montessori Diploma Program prepares the aspiring teacher to work with children
from 6 to 9 years of age in a Montessori Elementary environment. This program is based on the
fundamental Montessori philosophy and methodology and will provide detailed knowledge of
contemporary approaches to Elementary child development within the framework of the Montessori
philosophy.

This MACTE accredited Lower Elementary Montessori Diploma Program is geared towards
adult learners who are working or plan to work full-time as certified Elementary Montessori Teachers. Our highly qualified faculty, advanced curriculum, and blended (online and in-person) approach offers unparalleled learning opportunities for our adult learners. Graduates from our programs become problem solvers, innovators and resourceful Montessori educational guides for children.

Our blended program is comprised of the following elements:

  • Asynchronous Learning: Approximately 10-15 hours per week on your own schedule
  • Synchronous Learning: Live virtual evening lectures (once a week, 2 hours in length)
  • Practicum Internship: 450 hours in a Montessori classroom (6-9 years of age)
  • Pure and Formal Observation: 30 hours
  • Practical Review: 17 in-person days at our campus

Program Courses

  • MEL601 Language & Foundational Theory
  • MEL602 Geometry & Basic Theory
  • MEL603 Biology & Intermediate Theory I
  • MEL604 Arithmetic & Intermediate Theory II
  • MEL605 History & Intermediate Theory III
  • MEL606 Geography & Theory Integration
  • MEL630 Lower Elementary Practicum
  • MEL631 Lower Elementary Practical Review

Testimonials

The Lower Elementary teacher training program is the perfect fit for those who are currently full time employed. The pace of the workload can be heavy at times, however the support from the instructors is incredible. The bond that we developed as a group, sharing struggles and triumphs is something we will always carry with us as we venture into the future.

Chandra K.

In-Person Practical Review Days

The In-Person Practical Review Days provide an opportunity to gain hands-on experience with Montessori materials and to learn from experienced instructors regarding the fundamentals of giving strong and meaningful presentations to a child. 

In-Person Practical Review Days will take place on the tentatively scheduled Saturdays or Sundays outlined below at our Toronto campus from 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (EST).

Toronto: 8525 Torbram Rd, Brampton, ON L6T 5K4

Sunday, January 26, 2025 Sunday, February 9, 2025 Sunday, March 2, 2025
Sunday, March 16, 2025 Sunday, March 30, 2025 Sunday, April 27, 2025
Sunday, May 4, 2025 Sunday, May 25, 2025 Sunday, June 8, 2025
Sunday, June 22, 2025 Sunday, September 7, 2025 Sunday, September 28, 2025
Sunday, October 19, 2025 Sunday, November 2, 2025 Sunday, November 16, 2025
Sunday, November 30, 2025 Sunday, December 14, 2025  

Note: All posted dates and locations are tentative and subject to change at the discretion of the College

Pure and Formal Observation

Learners must complete the Observation component, which includes 30 hours of Observation. These observation hours are required to complete Observation Reports that are due at various times throughout the program. Observation Report #1 is due in MEC601. Please note that learners cannot progress in the course without submitting observation reports in a timely manner.

If employed at a school, learners must make the appropriate arrangements to complete these hours within the due dates. While completing observation hours, the learner cannot be counted in ratio and must silently observe the room.

If learners are not currently employed at a school, arrangements must be made immediately. Learners are asked to please consult with their student handbook for guidelines on how to make these arrangements.

Practicum Internship

Learners must complete 450 hours in an approved Montessori classroom with children between the ages of 6-9. The practicum site must meet the College’s requirements:

  • The site must conduct an authentic Montessori program
  • The site must have a prepared environment that contains the Montessori materials for the appropriate age level
  • The site must maintain an uninterrupted work cycle that is age appropriate
  • The site must maintain multi-age groupings to support social development
  • The site must provide the college opportunity to complete 3-6 virtual field visits

A list of Montessori materials is available here.

During the completion of practicum hours, learners are expected to observe, assist and participate in all aspects of the children’s development and growth in their assigned classroom. 

Please note that some programs cannot be counted towards the Practicum, including but not limited to: before/after school programs, camps, recess, lunch coverage, breaks, or hours completed outside of the appropriate age level. Hours must be logged on a consistent schedule in a minimum of 2 hour work cycle increments.

Admission and Fees

Admission Requirements

Applicants must:

Be 18 years of age or older

Submit a current resume

Submit documentation verifying the completion of one of the following: a University Degree, a College Diploma, or an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (or equivalent)

Pass the English Language Assessment

Submit Photo Identification

Admission Process

The admission process is as follows:

Step 1: Submit the Application Form.

Step 2: Upload required supporting documents, including your resume, here within 24 hours of your application submission.

Step 3: Montessori Teachers College will contact you to arrange a virtual interview, which will include an oral language assessment.

Step 4: Upon a successful interview and review of your supporting documents, Montessori Teachers College will require proof of academic credentials, along with the completion of a written language assessment, which will be sent to you by email.

Step 5: Montessori Teachers College will review your academic credentials and written language assessment.

Step 6: Following a thorough review of the required documents and successful completion of the written language assessment, Montessori Teachers College will email you an Acceptance Letter.

Step 7: The admission process will be finalized, and Adult Learner will be placed in the respective cohort upon payment of the non-refundable, non-transferrable Registration Fee (deposit) of $500.00.

Program Fees

Application Fee: Waived

Registration Fee: $500.00 (due upon acceptance – non refundable)

Lower Elementary Montessori Diploma Tuition: $5,650.00 (in addition to the initial non refundable $500.00 deposit)

Payment Options:

Option #1: 
10 monthly instalments of $565.00 (1st of every month, not including initial non refundable $500.00 deposit)

Option #2: 
Lump Sum of $6,150.00 upon acceptance (includes non refundable $500.00 deposit and $5,650.00 tuition) 

Montessori Teachers College recommends candidates budget approximately $120 for books and an additional $200 for printing and supplies.

Please note: We are happy to discuss alternative payment schedules. Please contact [email protected] to inquire.

Program Aims and Objectives

  • To have a deeper understanding of the Montessori philosophy and methodology
  • To love and respect each individual child’s spirit and purpose
  • To apply your experience, skills and knowledge in an Elementary Montessori classroom
  • To apply your knowledge and skills with your own child(ren)
  • To be a Montessori Elementary Guide in any Elementary classroom around the world

Career Opportunities

After completing your Lower Elementary Montessori Diploma Program, you can apply to the following positions:

  • Lower Elementary Montessori Teacher
  • Elementary Montessori Teacher

Montessori Teachers College does not guarantee admission or successful completion of the diploma program offered.

Montessori Teachers College does not guarantee employment to those who successfully complete the diploma program.

Admission to the diploma program does not guarantee the adult learner the right to enter Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (Canada) or to receive a visa or other document required under that Act.