An Gairdin Scoil Montessori

An Irish language pre-school in Mullingar, Co. Westmeath, An Gairdín Scoil Montessori opened in September 2009 with a single teacher and 6 children. It now has two full time teachers and 26 children on roll. Sessional places are provided for children aged 2 to 6 years. The setting uses Montessori materials covering mathematics, language, geography, science, culture, music, gardening and art, together with practical life and sensorial exercises. Irish vocabulary linked to each week's topic is sent to parents on Mondays, and monthly plans go home at the start of every month. Written progress reports are issued twice a year, in December and June. The garden is used as a teaching space where children grow plants and vegetables, and outdoor play is part of the daily routine. Parents may call in during the day under an open door policy.