Wellington CASA Children's Montessori Centre works with development-age children between one and six. The Montessori method supports the individual child to reach their full potential. Expert attention during the development years eliminates learning barriers. Their foundation skills and knowledge help them to achieve a better education, and to become able-bodied, contributing adults in society. The Wellington CASA inclusive environment breaks racial, neural capabilities, and income barriers
Many barriers obstruct learning among children of lower-income farm and domestic workers. This can be attributed to the lack of 1:1 education during the developmental ages of 1- 6. Poverty and poor state commitment exacerbate the problem. 24% of Grade 11 learners drop out. They face unemployment and poverty. Their full potential to contribute to society as adults is never realized. This project will lay the foundation for children of a poor community to become pro-active learners and citizens.
This PSI project targets specifically vulnerable children from poor households to benefit from the Montessori method and pedagogy. The designed space enhances four facets of a child's brain development: independent movement, functional activity, play, and communication. A child's achievement in these critical skills addresses many learning barriers. Directing growth during the developmental years sets the foundations for a child's future. The inclusive environment benefits all children.
The project will run for 4 years, consistently breaking down learning barriers to enable each child to matriculate. It will provide the foundation for three poor children per year to become well-adapted adults, enabling an escape from the poverty trap. Parents well-versed in the Montessori method, will in turn contribute more to the community. Word of mouth and excellent reputation will grow the school, thereby increasing its numbers and influence in the community, leading to sustainabllity.
