Teaching Practice Student / Montessori Teacher Trainee

Job purpose

To support teaching and learning at Barnley Montessori by assisting teachers in providing Montessori-based, child-centred education to children aged 18 months to 10 years. The trainee will support children's academic, social, emotional, physical and practical development while recognising and responding to individual learning abilities and special educational needs.

Key responsibilities

• Assist the class teacher in planning and conducting Montessori-based, practical and hands-on learning activities appropriate to the children's age and developmental level.
• Support children in using Montessori materials and equipment correctly and independently.
• Observe children's behaviour, participation and progress and report relevant observations to the supervising teacher.
• Assist in identifying individual learning needs and providing appropriate support under the guidance of the class teacher.
• Support the development of language, literacy, numeracy, sensory, motor, communication, social and practical life skills.
• Assist with preparation and organisation of the Montessori classroom, learning materials and activity areas.
• Support daily classroom routines, transitions and activities while maintaining a calm, orderly and child-friendly environment.
• Adapt learning activities and materials, under teacher guidance, to accommodate children with different abilities and learning needs.
• Encourage children's independence, confidence, concentration, creativity and participation in accordance with Montessori principles.
• Provide appropriate one-to-one or small-group support to children who require additional assistance.
• Work collaboratively with the supervising teacher and other Barnley Montessori staff to support children's learning and development.
• Assist in maintaining appropriate records and documentation relating to children's learning activities and progress.
• Promote a safe, clean, respectful and inclusive classroom environment.
• Follow Barnley Montessori's policies and procedures relating to child safeguarding, health and safety, confidentiality and professional conduct.
• Participate in school activities, staff discussions and other duties assigned by the supervising teacher that contribute to effective teaching and learning.

Children supported

During the teaching-practice placement, the student may support children with different learning abilities and developmental needs, including children who may have:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
• Down syndrome
• Visual or hearing impairments
• Delayed developmental milestones
• Physical impairments
• Cerebral palsy
• Dyslexia and other learning difficulties
• Speech and communication difficulties
• Other special educational needs or developmental challenges

Support will be provided under the direction and supervision of qualified teachers and relevant school staff, with emphasis on respecting each child's individual abilities, dignity and learning pace.

Key skills and qualities

The Teaching Practice Student at Barnley Montessori should demonstrate:

• Patience, empathy and genuine care for children.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Creativity and willingness to use practical and hands-on teaching approaches.
• Ability to work respectfully with children of different abilities and developmental levels.
• Willingness to learn and apply Montessori principles and practices.
• Observation and listening skills.
• Teamwork and ability to work under the guidance of experienced teachers.
• Flexibility and willingness to adapt learning activities to individual needs.
• Reliability, responsibility and professionalism.
• Respect for children's individuality, privacy, dignity and rights.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe, inclusive and positive learning environment.

Expected learning outcomes

By the end of the teaching-practice placement at Barnley Montessori, the student should have gained practical experience in:

• Applying Montessori principles in a real classroom environment.
• Preparing and facilitating age-appropriate learning activities.
• Using Montessori materials to promote independent learning.
• Observing and documenting children's learning and development.
• Supporting children with different abilities and special educational needs.
• Managing classroom routines and supporting positive behaviour.
• Communicating and working effectively with supervising teachers and other staff.
• Maintaining professional standards, child safeguarding and classroom safety.
• Reflecting on teaching practice and using feedback to improve teaching skills.