Montessori Teaching Assistant

Job Description

Perth Montessori is an independent, non-denominational school established in 1980 on Whadjuk Noongar country, in Burswood, Western Australia. Perth Montessori offers families a Montessori education from the start, beginning with our sessional Playgroup for parents and their children (0 to 3 years) through the Children’s House (3 to 6 years) into primary school (6 to 12 years) and on finally to Adolescence (12 to 18 years). We follow the Montessori approach that prioritises the development of self-discipline, independence, and global citizenship, placing students at the centre of their educational experience. We are committed to the development of the whole child who will be an independent thinker, ethically minded and ready to thrive in a rapidly changing world. The Education Assistant is responsible for assisting the Montessori teacher (guide) and creating a positive learning environment for students. Working within the Montessori framework, the Education Assistant helps maintain an atmosphere of respect, independence, and creativity while providing hands-on assistance to both children and guides. Assistants are key to ensuring that the complex learning environment is prepared for children. This position is three days per week in our Children’s House classroom for pre-kindergarten to pre-primary students. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES WORK WITH ADULTS: Supporting the guide with classroom management by proactively monitoring classroom activity to manage and respond to students’ needs protecting the guide’s lesson time. Collaborate effectively with the guide to implement plans and support students to achieve set goals. Direct family inquiries about children and classroom activities to the guide, maintaining professionalism and confidentiality. Record observations as directed by the guide and manage children's needs to allow the guide to provide uninterrupted lessons. Participate in and/or contribute to extra-curricular activities including camps, concerts, sporting activities, clubs, parent education evenings and social events from time-to-time. WORK WITH CHILDREN: Understand and act on the expectations around communication with the children (e.g. moving quietly within the room, not interrupting a child at work, treating all children with grace and courtesy, respecting their work choices). Set clear expectations and limits without resorting to commands, ensuring children feel secure and supported. Should not present lessons to children unless the guide has already presented the lesson previously and has asked them to re-present it to the student or small group. Supporting students with toileting and administering first aid as required. Lunch supervision with the Guide and yard duty according to the school plan. CARE OF THE ENVIRONMENT Assist students in keeping the classroom clean and organised, helping them manage their belongings and workspace. Assist in preparing materials and supplies for daily use, including supporting food preparation for snack. Ensure that the classroom remains clean and orderly, discreetly handling necessary cleaning tasks throughout the day. QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS, AND EXPERIENCE Certificate III or IV in Early Childhood Education and Care or similar Working With Children Check Experience in the early education sector Training and/or experience working in a Montessori environment is highly advantageous Shared values and expectations in working with children that align with Montessori philosophy Excellent interpersonal skills and communication skills Ability to work independently and as a member of a team An understanding of neurodivergence and other differences that impact student success at school #J-18808-Ljbffr