Edinburgh Montessori Arts School

Established in 2006 and the only school in Scotland to offer a complete Montessori education for 1-18 years, our Montessori school is in tune with the rhythms of life that unlock intellectual curiosity and boundless imagination. It is a place of place of kindness, diversity and human connection where each student can be their best self.

Our school gives children real time to develop and to enjoy childhood unrushed. We work hard to cultivate our children’s sense of awe and wonder, providing real experiences at a gentle pace. Children have time to watch, listen, build confidence and try new things. Learning is sequential and adapted to suit each individual and we celebrate the many differences that make up our diverse community. Technologies and research tools are introduced gradually as children are ready to explore their wider environment and all aspects of daily life are considered important. The joy a toddler experiences when we give them the chance to dress themselves is valued as much as an older child learning how to use an encyclopaedia for research. Joyful, enthusiastic children are at the heart of all that we do and we have a deep appreciation of the life lessons the children teach us every day.

The Montessori method resonated with me immediately as this common sense approach takes into account the interests and learning styles of each individual whilst guiding children’s development within a peaceful cooperative community.

We observe children in many parts of the world and truly see the value that Montessori’s philosophy of Education for Peace can bring them. Montessori called her approach ‘Cosmic Education’, meaning an education that encompasses all the wonders of the universe given to the children through story, manipulative learning materials, imaginative exploration and real experiences. The world presented thus inspires joyful, meaningful, constructive activity and a desire to learn that builds on the child’s innate drives to develop.

It is not change itself that poses challenge but how we learn to cope with change. Life in the 21st century is fast paced and children need a plethora of skills to allow them to adapt as they grow. What Montessori observed a century ago is still true today…we can not rush the development of children’s minds.we believe this is even more important in the technologically, information rich present day where children are buffeted by so many adult stimuli. Treated as small adults; raised as consumers; targeted by advertising. Childhoods are being eroded. ‘Nature deficit disorder’ has become common place, too many children are confined indoors their explorations of the world narrowed to images on screens.

Our children exist within many environments and each setting provides vital elements that contribute to the building of their interests and character. At EMAS we believe that daily contact with nature both indoors and out gives children the chance to use their senses in dynamic work and play experiences to the full.Situated on the back of Blackford Hill and the Hermitage of Braid Nature Reserve we are ideally placed to access these Edinburgh green spaces, just a stones throw from our classrooms.

Our children exist within many environments and each setting provides vital elements that contribute to the building of their interests and character. At EMAS we believe that daily contact with nature both indoors and out gives children the chance to use their senses in dynamic work and play experiences to the full.

Situated on the back of Blackford Hill and the Hermitage of Braid Nature Reserve we are ideally placed to access these Edinburgh green spaces, just a stones throw from our classrooms.

Time outdoors is precious and we aim to get outside no matter what the weather. Children have time each day for explorative, imaginative, energetic play where adult intervention is kept to a minimum. A real chance to practice social skills and strategies, build their own worlds and consolidate much of their academic learning. Props are developed by the children from the natural surroundings, trees become shelters, pathways are carved in the long summer grasses. Buildings, shops, hospitals and bases are imagined and brought to life through childhood enchantment and complete freedom to dream. Play is directed by the children and games, stories, backdrops and plots grow over weeks and months of visiting and revisiting the same natural spaces.

By accessing the creative arts in the classrooms and through our work with specialist arts teachers, we seek to provide real balance for our children and open up the world of imagination and self-expression. As each specialist focuses on the integration of a particular discipline, visual arts, drama, dance, and music are brought to life.

Our Vision

Young people as change-makers; educated through responsibility, agency and social purpose.

Our Mission

To design learning spaces where young people have structure, responsibility, and choice. Guiding students to question, challenge and explore; confidently living in today’s world and embracing the possibilities of tomorrow.

Our Values

• Inclusion, diversity, equality and belonging
• A culture of respect, creativity, and independence
• The individuality and potential of every human
• Human beings’ innate desire to learn and create
• Interaction with the natural world and stewardship of the natural environment
• Purposeful activity and meaningful work
• Families engaged in their children’s learning and the school community
• Upholding a scientific and developmental approach to the needs of humans
• Continued personal and professional growth for all staff
• collaborative work among children, adolescents, and adults
• Education for a just and peaceful world