Montessori Training with First Children
AMI Montessori Training in South Africa
First Children is a representative of the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) in South Africa, working to make high-quality AMI training more accessible. We support the establishment of Montessori diploma and certificate courses, ensuring that educators, parents, and institutions can receive authentic Montessori training aligned with AMI Global standards.
Our mission is to offer AMI training to South Africa while making it as affordable and accessible as possible, so that more communities can benefit from Montessori education.
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Upcoming Training Programs (Pending AMI Approval)
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First Children is currently planning to offer the following courses:
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Orientation Courses
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AMI Orientation Certificate 3-6 (Online, 13 Jun - 4 Jul 2026)
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AMI Orientation Certificate 0-3 (Online, 25 Jul - 15 Aug 2026)
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AMI Orientation Certificate 6-12 (Online, 28 Sept - 19 Nov 2026)
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AMI Diploma Courses
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AMI Training Programs Offered
1. Orientation Courses (Online – 2025)
These introductory courses provide a foundation in Montessori philosophy and child development for parents, educators, and anyone interested in Montessori education.​
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AMI Orientation Course 6–12 (Online, 2025)
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Introduction to Montessori education for children aged 6 to 12 (Elementary).
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Explores Cosmic Education, child development, and the role of the Montessori guide.
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Note: These courses do not include training with Montessori materials.
More details, including course structure and dates, will be announced soon.
2. AMI Diploma Courses (In-Person – Starting 2026)
The AMI Montessori Diploma Courses are internationally recognized qualifications that prepare graduates to work as certified Montessori educators. First Children is working to bring two full diploma courses to South Africa:
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AMI Diploma 3–6 (Children’s House) – 2026-2027 (click for more details)
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Comprehensive training to become a Montessori educator for children aged 3 to 6.
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In-depth study of child development, Montessori philosophy, and classroom management.
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Includes observation, practice teaching, and supervised classroom experience.
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AMI Diploma 6–12 (Elementary) – 2026-2027 (click for more details)
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Trains educators to work with children aged 6 to 12, focusing on Cosmic Education and interdisciplinary learning.
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Covers Montessori philosophy, materials, and real classroom application.
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Emphasizes fostering independence, collaboration, and research-based learning.
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Application for AMI Diploma 6–12
If you are interested in the AMI Diploma 6–12, you can fill out the Expression of Interest form.
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3. Future Training Opportunities
First Children is also exploring the possibility of offering additional AMI diploma courses:
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0-3 Orientation Course (Online)
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0–3 Diploma Course (Assistants to Infancy)
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3-6 Orientation Course (Online)
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Introduction to Montessori education for children aged 3 to 6 (Children’s House).
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Covers Montessori principles, child development, and the educator’s role.
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6-12 Orientation Course (Online)
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Introduction to Montessori education for children aged 6 to 12 (Elementary).
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Explores Cosmic Education, child development, and the role of the Montessori guide.
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12–18 Diploma Course (Montessori Adolescent Program)
These programs are not yet confirmed, but we are actively working to bring them to South Africa. Stay connected for future updates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) –
* Are there scholarship opportunities?
* Yes, please share with us what you can afford at this time and we will do our best to find a way for you to join.
* Are there offerings that do not require missing work?
* Yes, we have online Orientation Courses and Workshops offered.
* How much onsite time will a course require?
* This depends on the course. We welcome your email with your specifics.
If you have specific questions, feel free to contact us at training@firstchildren.co.za​​​
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