Enrolment Process for Montessori Class (Ages 6–12)
At Manaaki Montessori, our enrolment journey is designed to be open, respectful, and collaborative. We welcome inquiries from families who share our values and seek a purposeful learning environment for their child.
Initial Enquiries
Families interested in the Montessori class can begin by contacting the Manaaki Montessori Education Trust (MMET) at tawamontessorienquiries@gmail.com or the Montessori class teacher.
Classroom Observations
We encourage families to visit the Montessori class: Attend an open afternoon or arrange a personalized observation
Enrolment Applications
After your classroom visit, families are invited to submit an enrolment application through Tawa School – Enrolment
Student Placement
Placement preference is given to:
- Students with at least 2 years of full-time Montessori experience either in a Montessori preschool or another Montessori primary school
- Siblings of children in our class
The criteria for placement is as follows:
- A learning style that matches Montessori methodology
- Family having an understanding of and being supportive of Montessori philosophy and process.
If a placement is declined and the decision is challenged, the MMET and school principal will consult with the class teacher to assess whether the right decision has been made.
Class Visits an Evaluation
- Primary school-aged students with no Montessori background are invited for class visits so the teacher can assess whether the Montessori approach suits their learning style.
- Preschool-aged students are observed in their current classroom. The Montessori primary teacher works closely with the preschool teacher to assess the student’s readiness for a Montessori primary environment and support a smooth transition.
- The class teacher requests the records for students who are new to the school (transition)
- Once placement is offered, students are invited for transition visits during the term prior to their start date. The number and length of visits vary depending on the child’s needs, as recommended by the preschool teacher and agreed by the parents.
- Student starts on the agreed date.