PG Diploma in Lower Elementary Montessori Teacher Training
Course Overview
This comprehensive course is designed for individuals seeking to specialize in the Montessori method for children aged 6 to 9 years, typically in Grades 1 to 3. Rooted in Dr. Maria Montessori’s philosophy, the training focuses on supporting the child’s development during the second plane, marked by a growing intellect, moral sense, and imagination. A key component of the course is Cosmic Education, which presents an integrated curriculum that helps children understand their place in the universe and the interconnectedness of all things. Trainees will learn how to foster independence, curiosity, and a deep sense of responsibility through a prepared environment that encourages exploration, collaboration, and a love of learning.
Who can Apply?
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Aspiring Montessori teachers with a passion for working with children aged 6 to 9 years
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Parents and caregivers who wish to apply Montessori principles at home during the elementary years
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Traditional primary school teachers seeking to adopt a child-centered, holistic approach to education
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School heads and administrators interested in introducing or expanding the Montessori method in lower elementary programs
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Educators looking to deepen their understanding of Cosmic Education and its role in fostering interconnected learning
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Tution teachers and learning facilitators aiming to support independent thinking and self-motivated learning in young children
Course Format
To accommodate diverse learners, the course is offered in a hybrid format:
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Theory Sessions: Delivered through a blend of online and onsite classes.
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Practical Sessions: Conducted entirely onsite at the Kalpagam Centre with 100% attendance mandatory.
This structure allows for flexibility in academic study while ensuring full immersion in the essential practical aspects of Montessori training.
Course Content
Theory:
Delivered through a blend of online and onsite classes, the theory component lays a strong intellectual foundation in Montessori education for the second plane of development (6–12 years). It covers key areas such as Child Development in the Second Plane, Child Psychology, and the evolving nature of learning during the elementary years, helping students understand how children in this stage think, question, and form moral reasoning. The course delves deeply into core Montessori principles and philosophy, with a strong emphasis on Cosmic Education, the cornerstone of the elementary curriculum. Trainees will explore the integrated approach to subjects such as Language, Mathematics, Geometry, Biology, History, and Geography, while also gaining essential knowledge in school management and classroom management. Special focus is given to the role of the adult as a guide and collaborator, the importance of observation, and reflective practice. These sessions collectively prepare participants to confidently and thoughtfully apply Montessori theory in real-life lower elementary classroom environments.
Practicals:
Conducted entirely onsite at the Kalpagam Centre, these hands-on sessions are a vital part of the Lower Elementary Montessori teacher training course, with 100% attendance mandatory. Trainees engage in guided demonstrations and practice opportunities across all key areas of the elementary Montessori curriculum, including Language, Mathematics, Geometry, History, Geography, Biology, and other areas of Cosmic Education. Emphasis is placed on understanding and presenting the Great Lessons, which form the foundation of the integrated curriculum. Participants will practice lesson presentations, work extensively with age-appropriate Montessori materials, and receive continuous feedback from experienced Montessori mentors. These immersive sessions ensure that trainees are fully equipped to guide children aged 6 to 9 in dynamic, inquiry-based classroom environments.
Course Duration
The Lower Elementary Montessori Teacher Training Course at Kalpagam Montessori Academy begins in June, with final exams in April. Theory classes are held twice weekly to build understanding of Montessori philosophy, second plane child development (6–12 years), and Cosmic Education. Practical sessions take place every Saturday and on government holidays at the Kalpagam Centre, providing hands-on experience with elementary materials and lesson presentations. Additionally, trainees attend four intensive onsite modules in August, October, December, and April, each lasting 2 weeks, focusing on in-depth practical sessions and album preparation under expert guidance. These components together ensure trainees develop the skills and confidence needed to effectively lead a Lower Elementary Montessori classroom.
Course Completion Requirements
To be eligible for the NCVRT PG Diploma in Lower Elementary Montessori Education (6-9 years), candidates must fulfill the following academic and attendance requirements:
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Minimum 90% attendance in all theory sessions
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100% attendance in all practical sessions
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Completion of all coursework, including:
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Handwritten assignments
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Preparation of practical albums
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150 hours of presentation practice
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60 hours of classroom observation
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60 hours of supervised teaching practice
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Completion of guided material making
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A minimum score of 40% in each of the following components:
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Internal assessments
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Final written theory examination
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Practical examination and viva, conducted by an external examiner
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Only upon successfully completing all of the above will a candidate be awarded the Government-recognized NCVRT Diploma, enabling them to pursue a professional career in Montessori education in both public and private institutions.
The Diploma
The NCVRT PG Diploma, awarded by the National Council of Vocational and Research Training, is a recognized certification for professionals working with children in a Montessori environment for the 6 to 9 years age group. The NCVRT Lower Elementary Montessori PG Diploma is nationally acknowledged, providing a valuable credential for those pursuing a career in elementary Montessori education. It opens doors to employment in Montessori and primary schools across India and supports individuals aspiring to establish their own Montessori programs or elementary schools. This certification also allows registration with the Employment Exchange, enhancing opportunities to work in government-affiliated schools and CBSE-affiliated institutions. Additionally, the NCVRT PG Diploma is recognized by members of the International Quality Standards for Vocational Education Council (IQSVEC), reflecting its acceptance in certain international contexts. For more details on international recognition and opportunities, please visit the official NCVRT website at www.ncvrtindia.org.
Eligibility
To be considered for admission to the Lower Elementary Montessori Teacher Training Course at the Kalpagam Montessori Academy, candidates must meet the following requirements:
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A Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution
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Proficiency in English (spoken and written)
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Must have completed 20 years of age at the time of admission
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Strong computer skills and reliable internet access (to support participation in online theory sessions)
We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and professions, including educators, parents, career changers, and aspiring school founders. Each application is reviewed on a case-by-case basis to ensure a good fit for the programme.
Application
To be considered for admission into the Lower Elementary Montessori Teacher Training Course at the Kalpagam Montessori Academy, applicants must submit the following documents in person:
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Duly filled and signed Application Form with 12 recent passport-size photos
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Gazetted officer attested copy of ALL your Educational Qualifications and Academic Transcripts (Diplomas, Bachelor’s, Graduate, or Postgraduate level or higher)
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Gazetted officer attested copy of Transfer Certificate from the Institution where the Highest Educational Qualification was attained
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Gazetted officer attested copy of your 10th and 12th Mark Sheets
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Copy of Aadhar
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Copy of Community Certificate
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Application fee payment details (transaction receipt)
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Signed Refund Policy Acceptance Letter (provided at the time of application)
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A handwritten essay (approx. 500 words) titled: "An Overview of My Life"