Educational Programs
IEducational Programmes Created Within the “Montessori Erdkinder” Project
As part of the Montessori Erdkinder project, four innovative educational programmes have been developed for adolescents aged 12–18, supporting their growth in accordance with the principles of Maria Montessori. These programmes are practical tools designed for Montessori schools across Europe. Each combines theory with meaningful action, enabling students to learn through experience, work in real environments, and share responsibility within their community. Now that the programmes are complete, we are ready to share them with other schools and collaboratively explore their practical implementation.
The creation of these programmes was one of the main objectives of the Erasmus+ project. Partner schools from six countries brought together their knowledge and experience to design resources that support adolescent education in areas connected with nature, craft, and practical daily life. As a result, four programmes were created: Beekeeping, Carpentry, Gardening, and Kitchen Work. Each has been carefully structured so it can function both in large and small Montessori schools, as well as in settings that are just beginning to develop an Erdkinder-inspired adolescent environment.
These programmes are not traditional textbooks. They are comprehensive guides that lead teachers and students through the full process of meaningful work. They include clearly defined educational goals, suggested activities, the tools required, and practical ways to introduce young people to the world of beekeeping, woodworking, gardening, and cooking. The most important element of each programme is the opportunity for adolescents to engage in real, hands-on work. Through this experience, they not only gain subject knowledge but also learn responsibility, teamwork, planning, time management, ecological awareness, and care for the community.
The programmes support the development of key competencies — from mathematical and scientific understanding to social skills, entrepreneurship, and creativity. Learning becomes a process that integrates intellect, emotion, and action. In the spirit of Montessori education, students take responsibility for their work, have space to make decisions, learn from mistakes, and gain experiences that prepare them for adult life.
Each programme has been designed to be adaptable across different countries and cultural contexts. Schools can use them flexibly, adjusting the content to their environment, resources, school calendar, and the needs and traditions of their students. The materials serve as a foundation that can be expanded, adapted, and enriched, making them living tools open to ongoing development.
Making these four educational programmes available is one of the most significant achievements of the Montessori Erdkinder project. We believe they will become meaningful support for Montessori schools across Europe and an inspiration for creating educational spaces where adolescents can learn through action, collaboration, and close contact with nature. Full programme documents will soon be available for download on our website. We encourage you to follow upcoming updates and to share your experiences with implementing them.
