Course Details
This QQI Level 6 course in Montessori Teaching is delivered by blended learning with practical workshops held over 1 week. This is the final opportunity to complete these QQI level 6 modules needed to work with the Montessori method.
Fee
€895.00Start Date
24th July 2023Qualification
QQI Level 6Location(s)
Portobello InstituteCourse Duration
4 monthsOverview
This is your final opportunity to complete the Montessori module awards
With many pre-schools facing a shortage of Montessori teachers, this is your final opportunity to add the Montessori module awards to your skillset.
The Montessori awards will be deactivated in December ’23
Portobello Institute’s QQI Level 6 Minor Awards in the Montessori pedagogy is designed to compliment existing ECCE qualifications and will allow you open your own Montessori school or work as a Montessori teacher. During this blended learning with 1 week of workshops, you will acquire a thorough knowledge of an early learning environment, early childhood literacy and numeracy and arts and culture as it relates to early childhood. This course will change the way you view a child’s ability to learn and you will learn how a Montessori classroom nurtures each child’s individual strengths and interests.
Complement existing qualifications
This programme is ideal for you if you wish to complement your existing ECCE qualifications and want to learn further how to create a positive learning environment for children. You will attend classes (online and onsite) each day of the 1 week intensive workshops from 10am to 4pm, focusing on the QQI level 6 awards that deliver learning in the Montessori method and pedagogy.
Develop practical skills and techniques
Developing the practical skills and understanding the use of the Montessori materials is the primary focus of this programme. Each day is split between theory and practical. There is ample opportunity for you to gain hands on experience and practice, under the supervision of an experienced Montessori teacher and lecturer, with the materials in our fully equipped training room.
These factors, together with the one to one tutorial support, offer you a course that is accessible, affordable and achievable.
Here are some reasons to choose to study with Portobello:
- Accelerated programme completing your qualifications, getting you out into the world of work faster.
- Career focused qualifications – our courses lead to awards that offer you the opportunity of immediate employment upon graduation.
- Reputable placements – our work experience placements are with prominent organisations, connecting you with respected employers to build your future career network.
- Realistic entry requirements – our entry requirements are reflective of the academic ability needed to successfully complete this course. These are clearly stated and remain static regardless of demand for places.
- Individualised support – we fit your learning model with support available when you need it throughout your learning journey.
- SMART assessments – we use a range of assessments for each module designed to support a broad range of learning styles, giving you the opportunity to excel.
- Industry expert tutors – our tutors are all industry practitioners connecting research and theory with industry practice throughout their lectures.
- Condensed scheduling – we value your time by ensuring your timetable is optimised for delivery, helping you maintain a work/study/life balance.
- City Centre Location – Commuting to Portobello is very accessible – the Luas stops outside our door, and we are located within minutes from the major transport hubs.
Why should I study this course?
Portobello Institute’s QQI Level 6 Minor Awards in Montessori gives you the opportunity to learn from a range of experts all of whom are passionate about the Montessori method. They bring their insight, depth of experience and passion for teaching to this course. Portobello Institute’s Montessori course will change the way you view the process by which a child learns and their inherent ability to concentrate and grasp a complex subject when given the time and freedom to do so. This qualification will allow you open your own setting or work as a room leader in a Montessori room.
"Within the child lies the faith of the future. The education of even a small child, therefore, does not aim to prepare him for school, but for Life."
- Dr. Maria Montessori
Who will recognise my qualification?
Upon completing this course, you will hold the QQI Level 6 Minor Awards in the Montessori modules as follows;
- Early Learning Environment
- Early Childhood Literacy and Numeracy
- Early Childhood Arts and Culture
This is your final opportunity to complete these awards
The Montessori awards will be deactivated in December ’23
What will I study during this Montessori Teaching – Summer Intensive course?
Educating the whole child, with activities and lessons designed to promote the development of social skills, emotional growth, physical coordination, as well as cognitive preparation is the goal of the Montessori method. Learning to advise, present and observe a child’s development quietly as they work with the Montessori materials, are key skills acquired during the training of a Montessori method.
Learn from Experienced Montessori Teachers
You will learn from experienced Montessori teaching practitioners about the philosophy of Montessori and their experience of how the Montessori method fosters each child’s natural desire for knowledge and understanding. You will learn how the Montessori method of education is based on self-directed activity, hands-on learning and collaborative play. Creating dedicated space in the prepared environment of the classroom for each area of the Montessori curriculum is also covered.
Learn to support the education of the whole child
During your learning journey through this course, you will discover how you, as a Montessori teacher, can guide a child to make creative choices in their learning that will support the education of the whole child
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Early Learning Environment
Children work for the joy of the process rather than for the end result. They have a need to repeat activities over and over until an inner need is fulfilled. You will learn and come to understand the history of Maria Montessori and her philosophy and reasoning behind “Learning By Doing”. This module includes practical life skills and sensorial education. The module teaches you how to use the Montessori materials in life skills and sensorial education to encourage children to learn how to care for themselves, others and their environment. These skills help the child to gain the greatest confidence and independence through the early learning process. The sensorial equipment designed by Maria Montessori lays the foundations for academic learning by developing and refining a child’s senses. This in turn enhances their perceptions and increases their concentration.
Your Lecturer
Arlene Finnerty
I feel that the module explores the Montessori pedagogy and how it elevates and empowers the child. The module introduces the student to the Montessori method & demonstrates how children develop skills
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Early Childhood Literacy & Numeracy
Maria Montessori believed children have naturally mathematical minds and she revolutionised the manner in which maths were taught and this module is dedicated to Montessori Maths and Montessori Language acquisition. These areas will teach you how to guide a child through the complexities of reading and writing using the Montessori didactic materials designed over a hundred years ago. The Montessori materials were designed to develop children’s language grammar skills both written and spoken using the Montessori approach. The maths didactic materials revolutionised the manner in which maths is taught to children. Problem solving becomes a challenge that is enjoyed without stress or strain at a young age. You will learn through using a variety of Montessori materials how to not only teach a child to calculate but also to give them a lifelong understanding of how numbers function. Montessori materials also contain an inbuilt control of error that allows the child to discover and correct his or her own mistakes and work independently from his class mates and teachers alike.
Your Lecturer
Arlene Finnerty
This module explores how valuable early literacy & numeracy is for children to make sense of their world. It gives students the techniques to introduce literacy & numeracy at a young age.
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Early Childhood Arts and Culture
Children have an inborn curiosity about the trees and the plants, animals and insects, their bodies, the planets etc. and this module focuses on two key areas of the Montessori pedagogy, Arts and Culture. Montessori children frequently astonish adults with their in-depth knowledge of subjects such as biology, geography, simple science and history. During this module, you will be introduced to the Montessori didactic materials and activities that will allow you to guide children to an appreciation of the world they live in.
Your Lecturer
Arlene Finnerty
This module explores Montessori’s pedagogy & how she believed the arts to be a communicative tool. It opens the discussion of how arts and culture offers diverse cultural experiences for young children.
Who will I learn from?
Programme Manager

Olivia Hamill
“Working as a PM for EY & SNA means working in an ever-changing industry, as investment in the childcare industry in Ireland has been to the forefront in recent years. This investment is not unlike the investment made by students- as they invest in their future through their educational journey. Being involved in their journey is fulfilling as you watch them flourish over time and support them in achieving their goals”
OLIVIA’S STORY
While my initial third level education was in Business Management my career path took a turn when I became involved in fostering. The more research (for homelife benefits) I conducted in the areas of children with additional needs, child development, play activities etc., I realised that this was an area I had a keen interest in. From here I went onto firstly study a Level 5 in ECCE, to have the basis for further study within the area. Then I completed a H-DIP in ECEC which led me onto a Level 9 MA in Child, Youth and Family studies. I studied part time while working full time, and this has helped me immensely in understanding students journey on similar paths- it can be a struggle trying to balance working, reaching assignment deadlines, attending classes, along with daily home (and social!) life, but once you achieve your end goal it is worth it. Having also worked in various rooms in childcare settings, this added to my experience, skills, knowledge, and abilities. Working in the sector assisted me greatly (before I took up the role as Programme Manager) while I was tutoring with Portobello as I was able to impart knowledge and experience to students.
Why did you choose to work in education?
Having gone back to study myself many years after my initial education, my own experience contributes to understanding individual students needs and abilities. Everybody learns differently and it is beneficial in the educational industry to have an understanding that some people may be visual learners, while others may be kinaesthetic or auditory learners while some may learn through reading and writing. Match this understanding with various modes of course delivery, tutors who are passionate about their subject areas, are inclusive to all types of learners and this can only lead to a successful outcome for students.
Collaborating with and listening to students is also an important aspect within the education industry, we all have knowledge to offer and learn from each other, having had this experience myself while studying, this was always something I encouraged while tutoring. Facilitating students to share knowledge and experience while motivating and supporting them through their learning journey is all part of the role as an educator. These roles also become part of your role as a PM, you want to see everyone achieving their goal and you are there to help, guide, advise, support, motivate and encourage them throughout their time spent with the college.
Your experience as a Programme Manager.
Before a student embarks on their learning journey, Portobello takes the time to explore which mode of delivery suits an individual’s needs, abilities, and time available to study. While working as a PM with Portobello I have come across many inspirational students, some who have not studied in many years, some who have had learning difficulties, others may be changing industry entirely, while some just simply want more knowledge as a parent to help them in understanding their children’s needs. As a PM contributing to all student’s journey through listening, supporting, motivating, and encouraging them throughout their education is an important aspect and it is inspirational to see students achieving their goal.
Why Portobello?
Working with Portobello allows you to get to know students, which allows students to feel valued and everyone in the Institute is committed to supporting students on their learning journey. Portobello offers flexibility in course delivery, this is something which can be a deciding factor on choosing a course, students consider what fits their lifestyle and free time available to study. By offering blended, part time, full time, online or distance courses, this gives Portobello the ability to offer courses to suit a range of students needs.
Qualifications
- MA in Child, Youth & Family Studies
- H-Dip in Early Childhood Education & Care
- QQI Level 5 in Early Childhood Care & Education
- BBS Honours Degree in Business Management
Personal Academic Tutor
Each student is assigned a personal academic tutor to support you throughout your learning journey. They are available to offer you telephone and email support at any time. You can arrange to meet them for further one to one guidance at a time convenient to you.
Many of our past graduates have found it is the opportunity to ask a simple question, seek direction and submit a draft of their assessment that supported them most to successful completion. Emailing your tutor at any stage during your programme to ask a query or submit a draft of your assessment supports you to achieve your personal best throughout your studies with Portobello.
This level of one to one support is a particular benefit to choosing Portobello as your Institute of choice to complete your studies.

Natasha Murphy
Position: Early Years lecturer
“Early years education lays the foundation for a child’s life-long learning journey.”
About Natasha
My name is Natasha Murphy, I am a manager in an inner-city, diverse Montessori School with 13 nationalities and I am an Early Years Tutor. This year brought a whole new level of teaching, as everything was moved online – online lectures and also online Live Circle times to stay connected with students, children and families.
I come from a family of early years practitioners, Montessori teachers and secondary school teachers, so I have always had a passion for working with children.
As I was growing up, I realised the importance of early childhood care and education, it is the first insight into learning for a child and that is how I decided to become an early years practitioner. I want to be part of each child’s early learning journey and support them to grow and learn in a fun and meaningful way.
While studying, I gained an interest in transitions. I implemented home visits prior to a child starting in my setting. I arranged an hour-long home visit with each child and their family. This helped me to build a respectful and reciprocal relationship with the child and family, which eased the settling-in process.
I was invited to travel to Sweden to talk about transitions with Early Childhood Ireland in March 2020, but due to COVID-19, it was cancelled. I have spent a summer in Spain teaching children aged 4-15 years old, and I travelled to Pune in India with Portobello Institute to volunteer in a number of orphanages and outreach community centres.
Working as an early years practitioner has allowed me to link theory to practice when giving a lecture. This has been very beneficial to students as they can relate and begin to see how their learning can be linked to their own settings too. As I completed my own studies through blended learning, I can understand how students feel trying to balance, work, home and study life.
Natasha’s Teaching Philosophy
My main goal when delivering a lecture is to share my passion and knowledge of early years with students so they can mirror this and gain a willingness to learn and understand the course modules.
While teaching, I always use real-life examples from my own experiences to support the theory, this creates an opportunity for students to become active in their learning and share their own experiences, thoughts, and idea or simply, ask a question.
A lecture for me is best taught through an interactive approach. I like to hear the students’ voices. This builds a collaborative approach within the class.
I present all information relating to the module by using the spoken and written word, PowerPoint with visual aids to try and accommodate all types of learners. I tutor the Level 6 QQI Early Childhood Care and Education Course and the Special Needs Assisting courses at Level 5 and Level 6.
Graduate attributes I hope to instil in my students are to embrace the learning and find ways to implement this newfound knowledge into their career/early years’ setting, team work, good communication skills, confidence and to have the ability to work independently and in a group.
Qualifications
- BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies
- MA in Early Childhood Studies
Modules Taught by Natasha
- Child Development – Early Childhood Care and Education
Students gain knowledge and understanding of child development theories and learn to apply them in a practical way. Skills of observation, evaluation and reflection are explored and the importance of using information as a basis for planning curricular activities suitable to the child’s interests, needs and level of development.
- Early Childhood Curriculum – Early Childhood Care and Education
Students get the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations as they learn to plan suitable, interesting, fun and stimulating curricula. They gain an understanding that curriculum is more than just planning. Knowledge of Aistear the early years curriculum framework and Síolta, the quality framework for early childhood, alongside current theories of the curriculum is gained.
- Social Legal and Health – Early Childhood Care and Education
The students will study the historical timeline and social policy which has led to early years education what it is today.
Children First 2015 put child protection on a legislative footing therefore all practitioners must have a knowledge of how to protect and safeguard children in their setting, through policy, practice and reporting.
Equality is vital within our diverse society, however, it does not mean treating everyone the same! The student will gain knowledge of the law, guidance, policies, provision and practice which address equality and diversity in settings.
- Personal and Professional Development – Early Childhood Care and Education
This module allows the student to assess their personal and professional strengths and areas for development and plan accordingly. This allows the student to become self-aware, to be more motivated, with the ability to manage their time and procrastinate less. This in turn relieves stress.
Students also learn how to arrange, lead and manage meetings e.g. writing an agenda, meeting etiquette, recording minutes and supporting and following through on decision-making.
The students gain the skills and knowledge to complete a presentation, from topic choice to rationale to presentation with visual aids to self-evaluation. This module provides the student will a tool for planning and improvement personally and professionally.
How will I learn?
Delivery Mode
This is a short course delivered intensely over the summer with a combination of self-directed learning and a one week intensive workshop.
Learners have until 31st October ’23 to submit all relevant assignments. This course is designed to give you the knowledge and understanding of the Montessori method whilst also giving you the opportunity to gain hands-on practical experience with the Montessori materials in our fully equipped training room.
Other delivery modes available
Montessori Teaching – Start Anytime
Location(s)
Portobello InstituteStart Date
Start AnytimeCourse Structure
This is a short intensive course delivered by blended learning with a one week intensive workshop.
You will focus on learning the Montessori method and pedagogy. Classes are split between the practical Montessori approach and theory training, with time spent learning the theory and practising the Montessori presentation skills during each session.
The Academic Calendar
You can enrol to start this course anytime however you must be available to attend the workshops below;
24th to the 28th of July
Mon 24th: 10am-4pm ONLINE
Tues 25th: 10am-4pm ONLINE
Wed 26th: 10am-4pm ONLINE
Thurs 27th: 9.30am-4.30pm ONSITE in Portobello Practical Demo Day
Fri 28th: 10am-2pm ONLINE
SKILLS DEMO EXAM DAY 12th Of August (30 min exam time- exam time slots available from 9.30am- 4.30pm)
Real Life Learning Opportunities
Montessori Teaching
As the philosophy of Montessori was “Learning by Doing” then it is only natural that work experience in an approved Montessori school, under the guidance of a qualified and experienced Montessori directress, be an integral part of your learning journey. During the placement programme of 2 days per week, you will have the opportunity to put into practice the exercises and skills you will have learned during the programme. You will have the opportunity by using these skills to stimulate, develop and guide the children under your direction to develop to their full potential. We aim to ensure that you will have the opportunity to gain experience in a setting that is aligned with your career ambitions. Our tutors and programme management team will help you secure a suitable work placement during your studies and this placement can be in your locality to reduce travel and time spent in Dublin.
How will I be assessed?
SMART assessments – we use a range of assessments for each module designed to support a broad range of learning styles, giving you the opportunity to excel.
The primary aim of the varying assessment styles is to support you to demonstrate your knowledge of theory and practical as a result of a range of assessments.
All of these assessment methods are seeking to support you to combine theory with scenario-based learning and how to practically implement these methods into your everyday practice.
Career prospects
What is Montessori Teaching?
The Montessori Method is an approach to pre-school education which understands that children are dynamic, natural learners. Maria Montessori believed children gain knowledge best from the “Learning by Doing” theory as opposed to the conventional sit, listen, read and then learn. “Learning by Doing” is, in essence the philosophy a Montessori teacher follows when guiding a child’s development in the Montessori school. The Montessori approach to education requires that children are free to follow their own interests when placed in a well-planned and structured environment which meets their individual educational and cultural needs. Above all, Montessori classrooms nurture each child’s individual strengths and interests while encouraging children to explore the world around them.
Related Courses
Montessori Teaching – Start Anytime
This blended learning course combines online learning with practical workshops with the Montessori materials, giving you the opportunity to study at your time, to be a Montessori practitioner and open your own Montessori school.
Early Childhood Care and Education – QQI Level 6
This qualification is due to expire in October’ 23 – Delivered by blended learning with webinars, you still have time to complete 7 of the 8 modules required for the QQI level 6 Major Award in Early Childhood Care and Education. This qualification allows you to open your own setting or work in the capacity of a room leader, supervisor or manager in an early years setting.
BA (Hons) Inclusive Education Practice – October ’23
This BA (Hons) Inclusive Education Practice degree, designed for delivery through blended learning with support from experienced SEN practitioners. Completed over 3 academic years, this course starts October ’23.
Speak to an expert
Choosing a course that will lead you to your career of choice is a significant decision. Understanding the delivery modes, supports available, career opportunities and further study options are all key considerations when making your choice. Our course adviser team are experts in the courses Portobello offers, the employment prospects and possible progression routes to Masters programmes – they will guide you through the detail and support you with any queries you may have.
It is important you make the right choice for you and choose the Institute and course that will best suit your needs.
Your Consultant

Jennifer Matteazzi
About Jenny
How long are you working in Portobello?
I have been working for Portobello Institute for over 5 years now.
What do you enjoy about working in Portobello?
I love the interaction with students. Every day I get to meet different individuals and learners who are looking to change their lives and I get to be the person who advises them on the best programme to take. It is a fantastic feeling to be part of their journey. For many learners this is a huge decision and I get to be the person who supports them in making that decision. There is an incredible sense of pride when I see our learners graduate and achieve their education goals.
What inspires you about working in education?
I believe that education is impowering and it can often change people’s lives. It increases the learner’s confidence and it allows the learner to reach their full potential. Coming back to education hugely lifts the learner’s self esteem.
Have you a story that you recall that touched you/made you laugh/made you cry?
One particular lady struggled with dyslexia all her life. Her disability really affected her years in school, her career choices and when this learner approached Portobello Institute I worked with her to establish the best way forward, the right course for her was without a doubt in childcare. This lady registered on the course and she needed a lot of hand holding throughout her studies from both myself and the academic team. I recall that the day of her graduation, she received the “Student of Year” award. We were all thrilled and delighted for her! This learner has since gone on to open a very successful Montessori setting.
How do you feel when you have helped a student reach a decision on their course choice?
I am there to be the deciding factor for our learners. We support people in making the right choice of programme for them. We reassure them the whole way and we support them throughout. It is a very rewarding feeling to be part of this process.
How do I apply?
Entry to this course is by direct application to the college.
Application Process
Step 1
Complete the online booking form.
Step 2
Applicants will be contacted for confirmation of personal details.
Step 3
Confirmation of a place will be given to applicants following successful application.
Fees & Payment Options
Fees
Course Price
Per academic year.
Full Payment
Total amount payable.