The Quest For Knowledge
"The quest for knowledge," the kindergarten motto goes. Nestled on a corner lot in the tranquil, gated neighbourhood in Setia Alam is Knowledge Tree Montessori Kindergarten. Founded in 2006, Knowledge Tree is a progressive establishment offering a systematic method of education based upon careful scientific study, the Montessori Method of education. Developed by Dr Maria Montessori, Montessori, in short, is an approach to the education of children that's based upon the principle that learning should be actuated by the children instead of the teacher. Ergo, every material in a Knowledge Tree classroom is aimed to reinforce an aspect of child development. As such, children select and initiate their own activities that correspond with their natural interests, and learn through their own experience and at their own pace.
Scientific observation then has established that education is not what the teacher gives; education is a natural process spontaneously carried out by the human individual, and is acquired not by listening to words but by experiences upon the environment. Dr Maria Montessori
Beliefs And Visions
In conformity with the Montessori Method of education, Knowledge Tree educational philosophies are thus deeply rooted in the following aims.
a) To develop social, spiritual, personal, physical and intellectual growth of a child.
b) influence behaviour patterns.
c) To drive children to the quest for knowledge.
d) To spark educational interest which is to last a lifetime.
A Family Of Experienced Teachers
Several research and findings continue to substantiate that teachers and teaching are the most important influences on student learning. Quality teachers beget quality students. All of the employees at Knowledge Tree are certified accordingly, adequately qualified and have the necessary CPR and first-aid training, among others. Furthermore, series of training programs for teachers are organised from time to time at the kindergarten. Education experts are occasionally invited to conduct such training workshops for teachers. To ensure all children aged between 3-6 years old at Knowledge Tree are able to develop their potential through the educational standards of Dr Maria Montessori more effectively, the teacher-student ratio at Knowledge Tree is purposely kept small.
Areas of Learning and Development
Knowledge Tree Montessori Kindergarten offers age-appropriate, progressive educational programmes and numerous after-school enrichment activities that are individualised for each student. All classes and programmes are carefully segmented into several levels and are true to the visionary educational philosophy of Dr Maria Montessori. The following essential skills are taught:
1) Programmes:
a) Practical Life
b) Sensorial
c) Phonics
d) Mathematics
e) Music (by Gloria Music)
f) Culture and Science
g) Art and Craft
h) Physical Activities
2) After School Activities
a) Mandarin Classes
• Held by their in-house Mandarin teacher. The syllabus is based on the Odanata Mandarin Reading Programme.
b) Speech & Drama
• Delivered through the Pyjama Drama programme (a blend of drama, play, music and movement) to nurture children's individuality and creativity.
c) Hue Art
• Held by Passion Art Studio, is a fun and creative class for children to express their creativity.
d) After School Service
• Knowledge Tree also provides flexible and stimulating home-based childcare service
e) Taekwando Class
• Children learn not only discipline, but also learn to improve their general well-being, as well as sell-defence abilities.
f) Bahasa Intensive
• A comprehensive Bahasa Malaysia course catered especially for kids aged 6.
g) Music (by Gloria Music)
• Music (by Gloria Music) is a comprehensive yet fun music class that incorporates vocal training and instrument practice.
h) Bricks 4 Kidz
• Bricks 4 Kidz® is an international program developed by Michelle Cote in the USA in June 2008. Bricks 4 Kidz®, among others, aims to stimulate children’s creative and Innovative thinking with the help of specialised lessons using LEGO® bricks.
