The Enrolment Process
INITIAL ENQUIRY
Parents call or email the RMPT Secretary.
RMPT Secretary to provide family with information about the Montessori unit and pass family’s details to Montessori teacher.
Teacher to contact family and discuss Montessori observation procedures and arrange the first observation session. Initial session is parent only (no child).
OBSERVATION
Parent/s visit for one hour during the morning work cycle at a time that does not disrupt the classroom and children.
If, after observing, the parent would like to proceed, the child and parent visit after school to introduce the child to the classroom and meet with the teacher.
This session is one hour and allows the teacher to observe the child and how they interact with the environment and the materials.
SUBSEQUENT VISITS
Before proceeding, the parents need to meet with the principal.
The child and parent then visit during a school day at a time mutually agreed upon (for about one hour).
The child will visit a second (and maybe a third) time without the parent for a longer period (this depends on the child).
Afterwards a report goes to the principal and contact is made with the RPMT trust.
RECOMMENDATION
Teacher meets with the principal to provide their recommendation of the child’s suitability.
The principal meets with the child and family to discuss all aspects of the Montessori unit.
IF DECLINED
The Montessori enrolment process ends. Enrolment in other Malfroy School class options can then be considered.
IF ACCEPTED
The Office Manager sends the child’s family a letter outlining placement in the Montessori unit. The RMPT and class teacher is also notified at this time and a donation plan is put into place; a first payment is requested before the child begins in the Montessori unit.
If necessary, transition visits are scheduled.
The child begins or continues their Montessori journey.
TRIAL
Children who do not come straight from a Montessori preschool are offered a one term trial.
The trial is an opportunity to see how they will adjust to the Montessori approach. The family may withdraw the child at the end of the term, or await the principal’s decision regarding a permanent place.
It is preferred that children start in the unit at 6 years of age. Younger students may need a longer transitional period.