Diploma in Montessori Early Childhood Education (Ages 3–6)

This programme provides professional preparation for adults seeking to lead a Montessori Early Childhood environment.

A Foundation for Professional Practice.

The Early Childhood Diploma is our core teacher training programme. It is designed to provide adult learners with a deep understanding of Montessori philosophy and the practical skills required to lead a Montessori environment for children aged 2½ to 6 years.

This course is not merely about learning to use materials; it is a transformation of the adult. Through academic study, scientific observation, and guided practice, students learn to respect the child’s natural development and prepare environments that support independent growth.

Who is this course for?

University Graduates

Those holding a B.Sc, B.Ed, or HND seeking a specialised professional qualification.

Career Changers

Professionals from other fields
seeking meaningful work in development.

Practising Educators

Teachers and classroom assistants seeking formal Montessori
training.

School Leaders

Administrators requiring a grounded understanding of the pedagogy they oversee.

Applicants from diverse professional backgrounds are welcome.

Programme Duration & Schedule

The Diploma in Montessori Early Childhood Education is offered through two programme formats designed to accommodate different professional circumstances. Candidates may complete the programme either through a Full-Time Track or an Extended Track, both leading to the same qualification and requiring the same academic and practical components.

Full-Time Track (10 Months)

Designed for individuals able to commit to a full-time schedule of in-person study.

Academic Phase (September – December)

  • Format: Full-time, in-person instruction
  • Schedule: Monday – Thursday
  • Time: 8:00 am – 2:00 pm
  • Location: Royal Master’s Montessori Centre, Alausa, Ikeja

Note: Fridays are lecture-free, allowing Adult Learners time to work with the materials independently and continue preparation of their albums.

Teaching Practice Phase (January – June)

  • Supervised Teaching Practice in an approved Montessori Children’s House
  • Completion of observation hours and teaching albums

Assessment

  • Final written and oral examinations take place in July.

Graduation

  • Successful Adult Learners are awarded the Diploma in Montessori Early Childhood Education (3–6) at the annual graduation ceremony in July.

Extended Track (17 Months)

Designed for working professionals who require a more flexible schedule.

Academic Phase (January – July)

  • Weekday evenings: Tuesday and Thursday (Virtual)
  • Time: 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
  • Saturdays: In-person sessions at the Centre
  • Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm

Note: Saturday sessions are normally held three times each month. In months with five Saturdays, four Saturdays are scheduled.

Teaching Practice Phase (September – June)

  • Teaching Practice is arranged in consultation with the Centre to accommodate the Adult Learner’s professional context
  • Completion of observation hours and albums

Note: Adult Learners on the Extended Track are required to complete the same teaching practice and observation hours as the Full-Time Track before being eligible to sit the final examinations.

Assessment

  • Final written and oral examinations take place in July.

Graduation

  • Successful Adult Learners are awarded the Diploma in Montessori Early Childhood Education (3–6) at the annual graduation ceremony in July.

Course Content

The curriculum is delivered through lectures, supervised practice, and independent study. It covers the following areas:

Montessori Philosophy & Child Development

A study of human development from birth, including the Absorbent Mind, Sensitive Periods, and the role of the prepared environment.

Practical Life

Exercises that assist the child in caring for themselves and their environment while developing coordination, concentration, and independence.

Sensorial Education

Materials that refine the senses, preparing the mathematical mind and laying the foundation for intellectual order.

Language

A phonetic approach to writing and reading that supports the child’s development of communication and expression.

Cultural Subjects

Geography, history, biology, science, art, and music..

Observation & Classroom Leadership

Observation theory, classroom management, and the preparation of teaching albums.

Fees

Programme Fee

₦2,000,000

Additional Fees
Fee Type
Amount
Note
Application Fee
₦30,000

Non-refundable. Payable upon submission of the Application Form.

MACTE
$400

One-time MACTE registration fee.

Examination
N150,000

Due in full by 30 June. 

Installment Plan

  • The Programme Fee may be paid in up to four (4) installments.

  • Applicants who require additional instalment arrangements may discuss possible options with the Programme Coordinator.

  • All other fees are payable in full.

Additional Resources

Candidates are advised to budget approximately 10–15% of the Programme Fee for required resources, including books, printing, album preparation, and material making.

Admissions Criteria

Admission to the Royal Master’s Montessori Centre is selective. We accept candidates who demonstrate academic readiness and a genuine interest in the vocation of teaching.

Eligibility

Application Requirements

  • Completed Application Form
  • Official University Transcript
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Two References (Professional and Personal)
  • Statement of Motivation: A 1,000-word essay outlining the candidate’s reasons for pursuing this vocation.
  • Interview: A successful personal interview with the Programme Director.

Course Content

The curriculum is delivered through lectures, supervised practice, and independent study. It covers the following areas:

Montessori Philosophy & Child Development

A study of human development from birth, including the Absorbent Mind, Sensitive Periods, and the role of the prepared environment.

Practical Life

Exercises that assist the child in caring for themselves and their environment while developing coordination, concentration, and independence.

Sensorial Education

Materials that refine the senses, preparing the mathematical mind and laying the foundation for intellectual order.

Language

A phonetic approach to writing and reading that supports the child’s development of communication and expression.

Mathematics

A structured progression from concrete quantity to abstract mathematical operations.

Cultural Subjects

Geography, history, biology, science, art, and music..

Observation & Classroom Leadership

Observation theory, classroom management, and the preparation of teaching albums.

Certification & Accreditation

Upon successful completion of the academic requirements, Teaching Practice, and final examinations, graduates are awarded the Diploma in Montessori Early Childhood Education by Royal Master’s Montessori Centre (RMMC).

This qualification is accredited by the Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education (MACTE), an international body that accredits Montessori teacher education programmes globally. This accreditation ensures that the diploma awarded by RMMC is recognised by Montessori schools globally.

Begin Your Montessori Training

Applications are now open for the Full-Time Track (September 2026) and the Extended Track (January 2027). Places are limited.

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