Overview

The classic introduction to Montessori, the AMI Orientation (formerly Assistants Certificate) is studied part time and online. You will gain an overview of the developmental characteristics and needs of children aged 6-12 years and learn about:

  • Montessori theory, child psychology and child development
  • How to observe and support each child at this developmental stage
  • Use of Montessori resources and preparation of learning environments
  • How to work with the Montessori teacher

Details

course Part time
Location Online
Next course 10th June – 3rd July 2025
Course format 3 live online sessions per week on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 5pm - 8pm (UK time) plus 16 hours of directed study per week
Entry requirements Over 18 and GCSEs or equivalent qualifications/ work experience
Who is this course for? Anyone interested in Montessori, classroom assistants, parents or professionals working with children

Psychologically there is a decided change in personality, and we recognize that nature has made this a period for the acquisition of culture, just as the former was for the absorption of the environment.”

Montessori observed that at this age children are characterised by their curious minds, ability to abstract and imagine, moral and social orientation and energy for research and exploration. They work in small, mixed-age groups on projects which spark the imagination, engage the intellect and develop reasoning.

What Students Say

What can I do with this qualification?

Course Content

The course is delivered through live online lectures and discussion with our experienced AMI Montessori trainers. You will be introduced to the Montessori approach and learn how to observe children. You will be asked to complete short assignments and undertake study in your own time including watching recorded lectures, videos and reading.

Introduction to Montessori Theory and Education

An introduction to the Montessori approach to childhood development and education. Gain an understanding of child development with a more detailed focus on the development of children aged 6-12 years and the unique nature of their mind.

 

Montessori concepts at this stage including Cosmic Education, Great Stories and Freedom and Responsibility

Discover the needs and characteristics of children at this stage of development including concepts such as Cosmic Education, Storytelling/ Oral Introductions (including Great Stories), developing imagination, social/ moral awareness and the concept of Freedom and Responsibility.

The Role of the Environment

You will be introduced to Montessori materials and resources for 6-12-year-olds and how to prepare learning environments such as classrooms for children of this age.

 

The Role of the Adult

You will explore how an adult can best support optimal development for this age group in any environment and as needed, to identify and remove obstacles to optimal development. You will learn about interacting with children of this age. The course also covers how to work with the Montessori teacher working with children between the ages of 6 and 12.

Observation and its importance

Learn about the importance of Observation as a basis for providing developmental support for children in any environment. Discover how the specific characteristics of children aged 6-12 years can be observed and supported at this particular stage of development.

Fees and scholarships

Course fee for 2024-25 academic year: £845

Students who are accepted onto the AMI 6-12 Orientation will have a £200 discount on the AMI 6-12 Diploma + will not be expected to pay the £99 admin fee for the AMI 6-12 Diploma which starts on 20th October 2025.

Training Information Session Ask A Course Advisor

Course Tutors

The AMI 6-12 Orientation will be led by Kyla Morenz with Carla Foster guest lecturing. Both Kyla and Carla will be directing the AMI 6-12 Diploma which starts on 20th October 2025 and only runs every 2 years - so this will be a great opportunity for AMI 6-12 Orientation students to get a taster of what it will be like to study with Kyla and Carla.

Kyla Morenz

AMI Diploma 6-12 Course Director
View Profile

Carla Foster

AMI Diploma 6-12 Course Director
View Profile

Apply for this course

Apply for AMI Orientation 6-12

£845
  • Next course dates
    10th June - 3rd July 2025
  • Course format
    Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 5pm - 8pm UK Time - 3 live online sessions per week plus 16 hours study in your own time
  • Discounts
    Students who are accepted onto the AMI 6-12 Orientation will have a £200 discount on the AMI 6-12 Diploma + will not be expected to pay the £99 admin fee for the AMI 6-12 Diploma which starts on 20th October 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

What will I need to do to gain the qualification?

  • 90% course attendance
  • 9 hours of observation of children
  • Three 500 word essays

Do you accept students from outside the UK? Do I need a Visa?

Our students come from all over the world and our fees are the same for everyone. This course is studied online and therefore would not require a Visa for any student. Please note that the live course sessions are listed in UK time.

Where is the training located?

Live online sessions with additional study in your own time.

What are the hours of the course?

This is a part time online course with live online sessions with the trainer plus directed study in your own time. Course hours can vary – please check the dates listing for the course you apply for.

What is the difference between the AMI Orientation and the AMI Diploma?

The AMI Orientation (formerly Assistants Certificate) is an introductory course providing an overview of Montessori at this stage of development and is also suitable preparation to work as a Montessori classroom assistant. The AMI Diploma is in-depth Montessori teacher training and qualifies you to work as Montessori teacher or educator for children at the relevant age.

Do you offer help in finding a job after completion of the Orientation course?

We advertise jobs at the Maria Montessori School on our Work with Us webpage where you can also find links to AMI and Montessori Society job listings. We share details of school vacancies and other external vacancies with our students.

What if English isn't my first language?

You need a good level of English to succeed on our courses. All applicants need to demonstrate their ability to understand and express themselves in both written and spoken English. If the highest qualification you hold was not studied in English, you may need to provide an English language qualification/test even if you do not require a student visa.

What is the application process?

Applicants are asked to complete our online application form.

We may contact you for further information about how we can support your learning.

Successful applicants will be offered a place on the course and your place will be confirmed once you have paid the course fee.