Testimonials from some of our Families:

“I have two children who attend Montessori. Both very different. Both thrive in the Montessori environment. When you visit you notice how peaceful the environment is and how respectful the children are and you immediately think – ‘my toddler would create chaos here!’ The difference is the teachers. These teachers and the philosophy of Montessori bring out the best in all children. They give them love, respect, empathy and most of all freedom to learn. If you are looking for the best for your little ones – this would have to be it.”

                                                        Tracey Beavan 

“The decision to send our children to Shaken Oak Montessori has been one of the best decisions we have made for our children.

Learning for life in a nurturing, secure and interesting environment has enabled our children to thrive and has fostered within them a love of learning.

The teachers, environment and learning equipment are of an exceptionally high standard. Our children love going to Montessori and we value highly the outstanding education and care they receive.”

                                            Richard and Emma McIntyre

“I really wanted to find the best place for my two girls to go to pre-school, so I did a lot of investigation into what was available in Manawatu. I was even prepared to travel into Palmerston North if I had to. However, when I came and visited Shaken Oak and read their ERO report, I had found the perfect place.

The teachers bring out the independence and concentration in a child through encouragement, giving the child freedom to make choices that meet their needs. Now you might think that this would lead to chaos, but when you walk in you come into a place full of respect and creativity. Shaken Oak is simply the best, affordable start that a child can have.”

                                                        Reyna Bradcock Uribe

All three of our boys have attended Shaken Oak Montessori with our youngest still currently attending.  Upon our first visit six years ago we knew straight away this was a place where we could envision our boys learning and developing friendships with other children, whānau and teachers.  There is an exceptional level of calmness, respect, and order in the environment and an amazing range of resources for children to interact with.  The teachers have wonderful rapport with the children and their families, which is maintained through portfolios, personally and social gatherings.  Our long history at Shaken Oak Montessori with all three of our children is testament to the wonderful environment, teachers and philosophy that can be discovered there.

                              Hayley and Chris Reille

The Montessori Teacher

Montessori teachers deliberately model the behaviours and attitudes that are expected of the children. We are calm and consistent, showing respect for each individual child. We maintain a peaceful and warm atmosphere in which children feel  happy and safe.

As children learn in many different ways and at their own pace, Montessori teachers "follow the child" by introducing them to the intriguing Montessori learning materials; by preparing an environment, indoors and outdoors, that meets the needs of every child; by learning about each child through careful observation; and by working in partnership with  the child’s family and whanau.

As trained observers of children's learning and development, Montessori teachers understand when to intervene in a child's learning with a new lesson, a fresh challenge or a reinforcement of previous learning. We also understand the importance of standing back and giving the child time to independently investigate, solve problems and make discoveries.

Most importantly, Montessori teachers are passionate advocates for children. We love our work as mentors, guides and friends, and are committed to supporting the growth of every individual child.

Janet

Kia ora, I am Janet Beames, Lead teacher and licensee of Shaken Oak Montessori.

After studying and working in Early Childhood Education for several years I discovered Montessori as a parent and have never looked back. Every day I am inspired by children’s love of learning and feel very privileged to be part of their lives.

Outside of Montessori I like to spend time with my three grown up ‘children’ and my grandchildren.

Alice

Kia ora, I’m Alice Cook and I have been a teacher at Shaken Oak Montessori since 2009.

I have a diploma in ECE and a Diploma in Montessori 3 – 6 and am a fully certificated teacher.

I live here in Feilding with my husband Luke and our three children. My two older children have both attended Shaken Oak Montessori.

I love the Montessori philosophy and being a part of this community.

Alisha

Kia ora, my name is Alisha Campbell. I began teaching in 2000, and graduated from Te Tari Puna Ora o Aotearoa in 2010, and am a fully certificated teacher.

I have a son named Brodie and do respite care for a girl named Annabel. I am passionate about teaching and being a part of children’s learning journeys.

When I am not at work I enjoy spending time with my family and friends.

Hosanna

Kia Ora! I am Hosanna Thompson, teacher at Shaken Oak Montessori. I gained my Bachelor of Elementary Education and  a Diploma in Special Education in the Philippines. I taught in a primary school for three years there.

When I moved to Feilding in 2015, I fell in love with Montessori Education and am now a fully certificated teacher.

In my spare time I enjoy spending quality time with my amazing family.