Welcome to Silveroaks Montessori School
Nestled on a sprawling 324-hectare working farm in Heidelberg, Gauteng, our school has been an example of educational excellence since its establishment in 2003. Initially beginning as a Montessori pre-primary school, our journey has evolved in response to the local demand for alternative education in the Heidelberg surrounding areas. Today, we proudly stand as a fully accredited Cambridge International school, serving children from diverse multicultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.
A place to learn and grow together
At Silveroaks, we are committed to inclusivity, celebrating the uniqueness of each learner while fostering a community that embraces differences. Our educational journey begins at 18 months, where we instil the foundational principles of Montessori education, guiding students through to Cambridge AS (Matric) levels. Our curriculum seamlessly integrates Montessori principles with Cambridge International programmes, providing a holistic educational experience that nurtures curiosity, self-belief, and a lifelong love of learning.
As stewards of the land, we recognise the importance of connecting with nature, especially given our unique setting on a working farm. At Silveroaks, students have the opportunity to explore the wonders of the natural world, fostering a deep appreciation for the environment and instilling a sense of responsibility for its preservation.
Silveroaks Montessori is registered with the Gauteng Department of Education and is accredited by ISASA (Independent Schools Association of Southern Africa) as well as an accredited Cambridge Assessment International Education examination centre.
Key Features of Montessori Education:
Montessori education focuses on child-centred, self-directed learning to foster a natural curiosity, self-belief and love of learning. It caters for age-appropriate developmental needs in different stages, namely Toddler (0-3), Pre-Primary (3-6), Elementary (6-12) and Adolescence (12-18). Silveroaks Montessori caters for all of these different age groups, starting at 18 months.
In addition to these core features, Montessori education emphasizes holistic development, nurturing not only academic skills but also social, emotional, and practical life skills. The environment is carefully prepared to encourage exploration, creativity, and a love for learning. Through a balance of freedom and structure, Montessori education aims to empower children to become independent, lifelong learners who are well-equipped to navigate the challenges of the future.
1. Mixed Age Groups:
- Children are grouped based on phases of development rather than their year of birth.
- This arrangement spans over three years, fostering a "real-world" simulation and facilitating peer learning and leadership opportunities.
2. Freedom of Choice within Structured Environment:
- Montessori education promotes independence and self-direction within clear boundaries.
- Children have choices between activities and materials, encouraging engagement at their own pace.
3. Uninterrupted 3-hour Work Cycles:
- Providing uninterrupted time for children to engage deeply with activities.
- Allows for individualized learning pace and a thorough understanding of concepts.
4. Teachers as Guides:
- Teachers are referred to as guides,
facilitating learning rather than lecturing.
- Guides introduce concepts briefly, observe children's engagement, and provide guidance and redirection as needed.
- Learning is tailored to individual needs and may include peer-to-peer interaction.
“….to influence society, we must turn our attention to childhood, for it is the little ones who are building mankind, and they work only on the materials we give them….”
Maria Montessori
The Absorbent Mind
Visit us and find out more about our school, by Booking A Tour.
Whether you're exploring the wonders of our Toddler (18 months -3 years) programme or preparing for AS/A levels, Silveroaks Montessori School invites you to embark on a journey of discovery and growth. Visit us and find out more about our school, by Booking a tour.
