UCW’s Education, Society and Childhood students enjoyed an engaging and thought-provoking guest lecture this week delivered by Montessori International CEO Karen Chetwynd and Director of Programs Preeti Patel.
The session was highly interactive from the outset, with Karen and Preeti asking students to reflect on why they chose to enter the field of education. This started a discussion exploring the enduring principles of the Montessori approach.
Students learned that Montessori is not just an early years framework, but a lifelong philosophy, one that remains constant even as the wider education landscape evolves. Karen and Preeti shared how this philosophy underpins Montessori International’s global work, which currently provides learning opportunities for over 750,000 children worldwide.
This guest lecture forms part of the Education and Early Years Careers Excellence Hub. At University Centre Weston our approach goes beyond the traditional classroom setting. Through industry speakers, workshops, employer projects, and more, we equip our learners with the real-world experiences and insights that set them apart in the competitive job market. It’s not just about getting a job; it’s about standing out from the crowd when they embark on their job searches.
The lecture also introduced students to theories of change, alongside key ideas that shape Montessori practice and its impact on learners. The session offered invaluable insight for UCW’s education students, broadening their understanding of child-centred learning.
