The school’s approach is strongly informed by the Montessori philosophy, now widely recognised internationally as helping to educate young people to the highest modern standards and giving them a life long love of learning.
The Montessori approach to education was first developed by Italy’s first female medical doctor, Maria Montessori, a century ago, based on her own direct observations of children.
Today Montessori schools, educating children from birth to the age of 18, are found around the world. The approach is holistic, child-centred and inclusive. Based on a profound respect for children and understanding what they are capable of, it promotes enthusiasm and joy in learning and enables children to realise their full potential.
The Gower School prides itself on a high teacher to child ratio, far exceeding most other schools.
The children’s social skills are strongly developed by the experience of learning in groups mixed according to subject and interest, as happens in life, rather than age.
Each child gets the opportunity to be Special Helper on a termly basis, giving them the opportunity to develop responsibility and initiative. The role involves helping at lunchtime, bringing in a healthy snack to share with the class, a music CD for all to enjoy and other tasks, such as taking messages and counting children to help with the register. The children love the system and are very excited when their turn comes round!
Every birthday is celebrated with a birthday circle, where the birthday boy or girl is presented with a booklet that has been made for them in conjunction with parents. The booklet contains photos of them growing up and is marked with little anecdotes and memories of momentous events, such as their first word and favourite foods.
Grace and courtesy is an integral part of The Gower School community. Children are expected to use their manners, open doors for adults, tidy up their materials and help their peers. Children are expected to use ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ as well as saying ‘good morning’ and ‘good afternoon’ at the beginning and end of the day. We also encourage children to use the names of adults when speaking to them and to make eye contact.