With bright, open classrooms that seem to invite the outdoors in through windows overlooking the beautiful front yard, children in the Primary class enjoy a thoughtfully prepared learning environment designed to meet their individual needs and support them in reaching their full potential. The shelves in the Primary classroom are carefully arranged with progressive materials that move from simple to complex and concrete to abstract. Each work is selected with the developmental needs and interests of the individual child in mind. Mathematics, Language, Sensorial exploration, Practical Life, Science, Geography, and the Arts all form essential components of the Primary curriculum, creating a rich and balanced foundation for learning.
In the multi-age 3–5 Primary community, younger children naturally look to older classmates for social and academic guidance, while older children gain confidence, leadership skills, and a stronger sense of responsibility. This dynamic fosters a meaningful sense of community within the classroom and supports each child’s intellectual, physical, social, and emotional development. Lessons in Grace and Courtesy help children develop respect for themselves, their peers, their environment, and the greater world. Each year in the Primary cycle offers new opportunities for growth, ensuring that children progress at their own pace and are well prepared to meet the challenges of Kindergarten and beyond.
The Primary child is immersed in activities that integrate movement, hands-on materials, and purposeful choice always within clear, consistent limits. In a Montessori classroom, freedom of choice means that children select only work on which they have received a lesson, use materials respectfully and accurately, and return them to the shelf ready for the next friend. Following these principles nurtures a deep sense of personal responsibility. Independence is strengthened through Practical Life activities as children learn to wash and dry materials, sweep the floor, scrub tables, prepare food, bake, and tend to plants. They also learn peaceful conflict resolution—using words to express their feelings when they are angry, hurt, or in need of help.
By the conclusion of the Primary program, the child is well on their way to becoming a confident, capable citizen of the world who demonstrates independence, compassion, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning.
