Upper Elementary Montessori Diploma Program

The Upper Elementary Montessori Diploma Program prepares the aspiring teacher to work with children from
9 to 12 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 skills-based MACTE accredited Upper 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 on your own schedule
• Synchronous Learning: Live virtual evening lectures (once a week, 2 hours in length)
• Practicum Internship: 470 hours in a Montessori classroom (9-12 years of age)
• Pure and Formal Observation: 30 hours
• Practical Review: 17 in-person days at our campus

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 – 5:00 PM.

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

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

Learners must complete 470 hours in an approved Montessori classroom. Of these hours, a minimum of 20 hours must be completed in a Lower Elementary classroom with children between the ages of 6 to 9* and a minimum of 450 hours must be completed in an Upper Elementary classroom with children between the ages of 9 to 12 with a minimum of five children enrolled. The practicum site(s) must meet the College’s requirements:

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 program hours 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.

* Those who have completed a MACTE- or AMI-accredited Lower Elementary Montessori Diploma program must complete all 470 hours in an Upper Elementary Montessori classroom with children between the ages of 9 to 12.

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

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.