"Being active with one's own hands, having a determined practical aim to reach, is what really gives inner discipline. When the hand perfects itself in a work chosen spontaneously and the will to succeed is born together with the will to overcome difficulties… it is then that something which differs from intellectual learning arises” Maria Montessori.

Maria Montessori felt that adolescents had a need for head-and-hands work— purposeful and meaningful work that led them towards economic independence. The work has to engage the hands, they need to be active, moving, be physically involved. At the same time they need to be engaging their intellect in the same task, to plan what their activity is, to analyse the best way to carry it out, to test it, use trial and error, reflect upon it and make decisions to move forward to the next task.

In 2012 Templestowe College is commencing an Erdkinder program, based on the teachings of Maria Montessori. This program will run alongside the other progressive learning programs already in place. We are keen to provide you with detailed information about the Erdkinder program, as we are for all Templestowe College activities.

Please download the document below to gain a fuller understanding of our Erdkinder program for 2012 and beyond. This program outline contains descriptions of all disciplines and subjects, outlines the manner in which classes will be conducted, and introduces many Erdkinder concepts.