How are the teachers trained?
Head Teachers are required to speak English like a first language & be one of the following:
Social pedagogues / social workers with diplomas or teachers recognized by the state government
Early Education Teachers that have been recognized by the state government
Teachers with a diploma in the Montessori method of education.
University graduate with a minimum of a BA diploma.
Assistant Teachers are required to speak English like a first language & be one of the following:
Certified “Kinderpflegerin” (3 years education)
Teachers undergoing Montessori training
Foreign teachers that haven't been recognized by the state government
Persons working towards a pedagogic career
All teachers have some knowledge of the German language and an updated First Aid Course

What kind of license does the English Montessori Preschool have to operate and how is it regulated?
In 1997 the English Montessori Preschool was issued a special “Children's Center” license by the board of education of the state of Bavaria. This license was custom designed for the English Montessori Preschool. In addition, the parents of the Preschool have two Parent Representatives who have an active role in communication with the director, teachers and parents.

My child speaks no English. Is this a problem?
Within the first few weeks, the child with no English begins to repeat command sentences and can sing many songs in English. Gradually, the child begins to comprehend phrases that are used everyday in class such as “What is this?” and “Please help me.” and “Come with me". ESL (English as a Second Language) group sessions are given to help the children with forming sentences and to have fun with the language. Normally within a few months, each child can communicate their needs and wants in English. Although the common language in the classroom is English, many children are fluent in more than one language and the ESL child finds friends easily.

I need to speak with my child's classroom teacher. What do I do?
It is a school policy that all concerns, which you have about your child, are directed to your child's classroom Head Teacher. An easy way to get a message to the Head Teachers is by writing a note and giving it to the garden teacher to pass on. Throughout the school year, we have parent/teacher conferences; however, if you wish to discuss an urgent matter with the classroom Head Teacher, or School Manager/Director, please telephone the office and make an appointment. It is best to have all matters discussed as soon as possible and not wait for unnecessary stress to build up because of unanswered questions and concerns.

May I observe the classroom?
All parents are welcome to observe the classroom at any time; however, please telephone the school for an appointment so that we do not have too many adults in the classroom on any given day. Parents are asked not to enter the classroom without being invited by the Head Teacher during regular classroom hours. Please speak with you child's classroom Head Teacher for more information.

Is there a private bus or transportation service?
We have tried in the past to organize a school bus service for our children but without at least ten family members participating, it has not been possible to retain a reliable service. Many families organize carpools and we suggest that you contact family members who live close to your home.

My child attends the morning session. Can he/she stay for lunch?
Unfortunately, the lunch program is reserved for full day and afternoon sessions only. However, if you should have an emergency and telephone the school, we will allow your child to stay for lunch as an exception.

What are the responsibilities of the parents of the preschool?
One family member must attend an education class given at the school once a year, and attendance at a parent/teacher conference is mandatory once per year. Other than that, it is up to the interest of the parents how much they wish to get involved with the school. Positive parent participation is always welcomed.

Does the school have school grants or scholarships for low-income families?
The school does not offer school grants to low income families. However, the city of Munich does finance some families in need. We suggest that you make a formal application with the “Stadtjugendamt”. Please contact the office for more information.

What are my chances of getting my child into the preschool?
We usually have more applications than places available, so please submit your “Application for Admission” as soon as possible. Returning students, siblings and native English speakers have priority.
Once a place has been offered and it is not accepted, a forfeiture of 30% of the application fee will be held as an administrative processing fee. In addition, if the decision is to remain on the waiting list, a new application must submitted which will be placed at the bottom of the waiting list.

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