We provide Montessori education for primary school years 1-8 (ages 6-12) delivered within the framework of the New Zealand National Curriculum and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme. Comprised of two classes, Eastern Suburbs Montessori is fully integrated into Glendowie School, providing access to school-wide programmes and facilities including cultural and sporting activities, the arts, an extensive library and IT suite.
Our teachers:
Left to right: Oliver, Tesneem, Rose, Hugh, Hiranthi
Our history
Our Montessori unit was started in 1996 by a group of parents with a common interest at heart. They saw their children thrive both socially and intellectually in the Montessori preschool environment which prompted them to explore the possibility of continuing Montessori education for their children through their primary years. Their proposal was accepted by the Principal, Board of Trustees and community of Glendowie School. At this stage funds were required to provide a classroom and equipment. Thanks to the generosity of local charitable foundations, businesses and continuous fundraising ventures by parents, the first class opened in July 1996 with a small group of eight 6 year olds and one teacher. Our roll has grown steadily since then to more than 80 students between the ages of 6-13, taught by six qualified teachers with Montessori training.
Our location
We are integrated within Glendowie School, situated in the beautiful Eastern Suburbs, about 15 minutes from the centre of Auckland. Our school is surrounded by parks, reserves and overlooks the Tamaki Estuary. It is close to the Eastern Bay beaches and the neighbouring suburb of St Heliers. The school is surrounded by quality high schools and early childhood centres.
Our classrooms
Our classrooms provide specialised Montessori learning resources and equipment in an atmosphere that is pleasant and attractive. Children learn at their own pace and interact in multi-age classrooms over periods of three years (ages 6-9 and 9-12), enabling teachers to identify and understand each child’s unique learning style. Complementing academic independence, children become masters of their environment and are responsible for managing their classrooms. The curriculum fosters the Montessori idea of an education for the development of the whole child.
Integration with Glendowie School
Montessori classes are fully integrated into Glendowie School, providing access to school-wide programmes and facilities including cultural and sporting activities, the arts, an extensive library and IT suite. Our Montessori learning environment is enriched by our participation in programmes and events within Glendowie School. In 2006 Glendowie became the first state primary school in NZ to be authorized to implement the Primary Years Programme (PYP) of the International Baccalaureate (IB). The Montessori curriculum sits comfortably under the school-wide framework of the PYP, which complements the Montessori philosophy, resources, content and method of teaching.
Term dates
2024 TERM DATES:
Term 1: 30 January – 12 April
Term 2: 29 April – 5 July
Term 3: 22 July – 27 September
Term 4: 14 October – 13 December
Our school is closed over the two week holiday breaks in April, July and September, as well as the six week summer holidays over Christmas.
2024 STATUTORY HOLIDAYS:
Auckland Anniversary Day observed – Monday 29 January
Waitangi Day observed – Thursday 6 February
Good Friday – Friday 29 March
Easter Monday – Monday 1 April
Anzac Day – Thursday 25 April
King’s Birthday – Monday 4 June
Matariki – Friday 28 June
Labour Day – Monday 28 October
Job vacancies
Elementary Montessori Teacher
We are seeking an experienced teacher that can co-teach in our Montessori unit. Our Montessori classes are mixed age environments covering the 6-12 year age group. Start date is 14 July 2025 (negotiable)
The ideal candidate will be a collaborative and supportive team player; demonstrate flexibility, show enthusiasm for team teaching, and be ready to embrace our learning culture. Montessori training is preferred but not essential.
Glendowie School is an IB World School that delivers the PYP and MYP curriculums. Experience in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years & Middle Years Programme (PYP & MYP) is not essential as professional development and support will be given.
Condition of employment will be that the applicant has NZ teacher registration before commencing the position and have a relevant valid work visa or NZ residency. We also welcome expressions of interest from suitable candidates whose current commitments may not allow for an application currently, but who would like to join our community of interested parties for future opportunities.
The Environment
Established in 1996 with eight students, the school now comprises two classes, with a total roll of approximately 90 students. Our school comprises one 6-9 space and one 9-12 space. We are integrated into a state primary school, conveniently located on the shores of Auckland’s Eastern Suburbs. This is a unique opportunity to work surrounded by sea views and lush green nature reserves. In this setting you can take advantage of new state-of-the-art resources including a well-resourced library, Digital Technology and beautifully managed outdoor and sports spaces.
Living in Auckland
If you are looking for a lifestyle change, this is your chance to live in one of the Top 10 most liveable cities in the world (2023 Global Liveability Index). Auckland has all the conveniences of modern life whilst providing easy access to all that New Zealand has to offer. You will be only an hour or two away from a variety of popular destinations, whether flying or driving. You will have the chance to enjoy a wonderfully harmonious multicultural city with an exciting mix of art, food, wine, outdoor sports and activities for the whole family.
If you would like further details, or would like to join our community of interested parties for future opportunities, please email Michelle at info@montessoriprimary.school.nz
To apply for this position, please send your CV and the names and contact details of two referees to Rose Phillips, Glendowie School, 217 Riddell Road, Glendowie, Auckland 1071, New Zealand, ph/fax 0064 9 575 7374
Email: info@montessoriprimary.school.nz
More information about the school can be found on our websites:
www.glendowieprimary.school.nz and www.montessoriprimary.school.nz