Montessori Early Childhood Educator & Nurturer

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional development

Supportive work environment

Impact on early learners

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a qualified Montessori Early Childhood Educator & Nurturer for our Durban preschool. This in-person role involves guiding children through self-directed activities and maintaining a prepared Montessori environment.

The ideal candidate has Montessori certification, 2–3 years lead experience, excellent observation and communication skills, and First Aid/CPR. You will partner with families, plan lessons, and contribute to holistic development.

Qualifications

• Montessori teaching certification (AMI/AMS or equivalent) is essential.
• 2–3 years of lead Montessori early childhood experience.
• Deep understanding of the Montessori philosophy and pedagogy.
• Excellent observational and assessment skills.
• Strong classroom management aligned with Montessori principles.
• First Aid and CPR certification required.
• Background checks and reference checks will be conducted.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and maintain Montessori environment.
• Guide children in independent learning with Montessori materials.
• Observe and record progress to inform learning plans.
• Facilitate practical life, sensorial, language, and early mathematical concepts.
• Foster respectful, collaborative classroom community.
• Conduct parent–teacher conferences to discuss development.
• Ensure safety and well-being of all children.
• Plan group activities and individual lessons.
• Collaborate with colleagues to support the program.

Skills

Observation skills

Classroom management

Communication

Interpersonal skills

First Aid CPR

Education

Montessori certification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly reputable Montessori preschool in the heart of Durban , is seeking an enthusiastic and qualified Montessori Early Childhood Educator & Nurturer. This role is crucial for providing an authentic Montessori experience to young children, fostering their natural curiosity, independence, and love for learning. You will be responsible for preparing and maintaining the 'prepared environment', guiding children through their self-directed activities, and ensuring their holistic development in line with Montessori principles. This is a hands-on, in-person position where you will directly interact with children, guide their learning journey, and build strong relationships with their families. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of the Montessori philosophy and has a genuine passion for nurturing young minds. Your dedication will be key to creating a supportive and stimulating learning environment that empowers children to explore and grow.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and maintain a child-safe, aesthetically pleasing, and fully equipped Montessori environment.
• Guide children in their independent learning activities, introducing Montessori materials and concepts appropriately.
• Observe and record children's progress, interests, and behaviors, using these insights to inform individual learning plans.
• Facilitate practical life skills, sensorial exploration, language development, and early mathematical concepts.
• Foster a respectful and collaborative classroom community where children learn to interact positively with peers and adults.
• Conduct parent-teacher conferences to discuss child development and progress.
• Ensure the safety and well-being of all children under your care at all times.
• Plan and implement engaging age-appropriate group activities and individual lessons.Uphold the core values and principles of the Montessori educational philosophy.
• Collaborate with colleagues to ensure a cohesive and supportive educational program.

Requirements

• Montessori teaching certification (e.g., AMI, AMS, or equivalent) is essential.
• Minimum of 2-3 years of experience as a lead teacher in a Montessori early childhood setting.
• Deep understanding and passionate advocacy for the Montessori philosophy and pedagogy.
• Excellent observational and assessment skills.
• Strong classroom management techniques that align with Montessori principles.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills for engaging with children, parents, and staff.
• First Aid and CPR certification required.
• A genuine love for children and a commitment to their development.
• Background check and reference checks will be conducted.
• Ability to create a calm, orderly, and inspiring learning space.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package.
• Opportunity to work within a renowned Montessori institution in Durban .
• Professional development opportunities and ongoing training in Montessori practices.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment.
• Direct impact on the formative years of young learners.