Rhiannon Jarvis and Stacey Newlands – EOTC Subcommittee, BoT
Education in Montessori primary and secondary schools goes well beyond the four walls of a classroom. Rooted in Maria Montessori’s philosophy, this approach emphasises experiential learning, independence, and real-world engagement. Montessori believed that education should prepare children not just for academic success, but for life itself. As she famously said, “Education is a natural process carried out by the child and is not acquired by listening to words but by experiences in the environment.” 1
Activities such as nature walks, community service and camps that take our ākonga away from home and into new environments for a number of days allow them to apply theoretical knowledge in practical contexts. These experiences foster critical thinking, adaptability, and social responsibility – skills essential for thriving in an ever-changing world. Opportunities beyond the classroom nurture self-confidence and a sense of purpose, aligning with Montessori’s vision of education as a tool for holistic development.
However, with these enriching experiences comes the responsibility of ensuring safety and managing risk. This is where effective governance plays a pivotal role. As a board, we are not involved in day-to-day operations, but we hold ultimate accountability for safeguarding students and maintaining trust with whānau. Through robust governance frameworks, the board ensures that policies for risk assessment, health and safety, and compliance are in place and regularly reviewed.
Key governance responsibilities include:
- Setting clear risk management policies that guide staff in planning off-site activities.
- Monitoring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
- Ensuring financial and operational resources are allocated for safety measures, such as insurance and staff training.
- Evaluating risk appetite in alignment with the school’s educational philosophy, balancing our desire to provide incredible experiences with good judgement about safety.
Ensuring we are giving effect to these responsibilities as fully as possible and strengthening our capability to do so, is a key focus for our Board at present. Education outside the classroom is not an optional extra in our kura; it is integral to our mission.
1. (Montessori, Education for a New World, 1946, pp. 3-4).
