Principal and Founder
Emma opened Morningside Montessori Nursery in the summer of 2006. She began her Montessori training in helsinki, Finland, in 1999, later moving to Thailand, where she contributed to the design and running of Ao Nang Montessori Nursery, a community project. Emma divides her time between the office and the classrooms, and is also responsible for Early Years Montessori teacher training in Edinburgh.
“The Montessori approach gives children the tools to make connection for themselves, they are respected as capable and independent self- educators, and it is the teacher’s role to provide experiences that facilitate the realisation of each child’s individual potential. Montessori’s ideal of ‘education for peace’ is manifested in the creation of a community of caring and kindness.”
Lead Teacher - Morningside Campus
Louise joined our teaching team in 2006 and has been Lead teacher at Morningside since 2008. After completing her Montessori training Louise spent time caring for her young daughter and putting Montessori principles into practice in her home. her deep understanding of early childhood development allows her to implement the Montessori philosophy in all areas of her practise.
“A child’s inner desire to be independent is exceptional and the unique environment provided in our Montessori school fully supports each child to reach their full potential. Every child I have worked with has truly flourished here and for me this is the proof that Dr Maria Montessori’s approach works and should be available for all children.”
Classroom Assistant and Trainee
Irene is orginally from the United States where she studied for her BA in Linguistics at Cornell University NY. After beginning Gaelic studies in the US she went on to complete her Phd in Celtic and Scottish studies at the University of Edinburgh. Through her study of Gaelic in early childhood settings Irene decided to pursue her work with children and joined our Early Years Montessori training in summer 08. We are very pleased to have her with us as part time
trainee. Her calm, gentle demeanor and deep knowledge of Montessori philosophy firmly underpin her developing skills as a classroom teacher.
Lead Teacher - Toddler Community
Blydie completed her Diploma in Montessori Education after gaining her BA in Drama and Theatre Studies at the University of Stellenbosch, South Africa. her gentle, thoughtful manner and passionate dedication to Montessori teaching allow her to build strong relationships with each child, becoming keenly aware of their personal interests and developing their individual curriculum around this knowledge.
“Montessori education allows every child the chance to unlock the world around them. The sense of adventure that follows from this journey of discovery inspires a love of learning. The biggest reward is sharing this journey with them.”
Head of Arts Provision
Pam is a drama specialist in children's arts, broadcasting and education. Under her own company banner of Books Alive she presents drama workshops all over the UK in schools, libraries, and literary festivals. pam coordinates our whole school arts provision as well as working with the children from nursery to elementary on music and movement, story acting, sound effects, literature, poetry and more!
“Drama is a great way to extend children’s social and emotional development.It allows them to build confidence in their own powers of expression, it is about using language in imaginative situations.Through role play children naturally dramatise, I just motivate them.”
Music Specialist
Anne studied violin at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama. She is a qualified Suzuki violin teacher and has taught violin to children in schools in Ayrshire and Edinburgh. Anne’s interest in Montessori education began when her eldest son started at Morningside Montessori. She has completed an Introduction to Montessori course and is currently studying for her full Diploma in Montessori pedagogy. Anne supports and encourages the children in their exploration of music; beginning with the introduction of song and rhyme in the toddler community and extending through all classes to violin lessons and composition in upper elementary.
“Montessori education prepares children for the study of any musical instrument. It is a pleasure to inspire such enthusiastic and self motivated children!”
Last few places for new Parent & Toddler Group!
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