Boarding Facilities
Available from Grade 7
Knysna Montessori School Pre-School is located in Knysna. Knysna Montessori School (KMS) is a close-knit, vibrant and passionate school. We observe, guide and encourage each child towards independent learning, through balancing freedom of choice with responsibility, within a prepared environment. The result is empowered individuals realising their full potential. The school lies on the outskirts of Knysna, nestled between forests and natural vegetation in the picturesque village of Narnia.
Knysna Montessori School was formed in 1997 under the auspices of the BMS Trust when founder, Taddy Beyleveld, extended her Pre-school and introduced Montessori Methodology and Philosophy to a group of 6-9 year students. As the students grew older, parents wanted continued Montessori education. The introduction of debentures in 2001, enabled the BMS Trust (Beyleveld Montessori Schools Trust) to purchase the buildings from Taddy, and in so doing, has progressively improved the school to what it is today.
The school comprises a fully-fledged Pre-school, Junior and High School and the first group of Montessori Matriculants wrote the IEB examinations at the end of 2008. Over the years the School has pioneered many aspects of education, the biggest achievement thus far being the proud Forerunner of Montessori High School Education in South Africa.
Toddlers 2-3 yrs
The Unconscious Absorbent Mind the child absorbs but cannot always remember. During this period toddlers develop different functions related to movement and intellect, each at first separately and then in combination. This phase is also termed the unconscious creator, in which children absorb the environment around them and construct their reality.
The Class
This introductory class of approximately 16 children is run by a directress and her assistant. In a nurturing, caring environment children are introduced to the rules of the classroom and playground. The development of relationship skills is very important: getting on with self and others, learning to accept boundaries, to respect the rights of others and to stand up for ones own rights all these skills form a large part of the programme. Emphasis is also placed on developing language skills and encouraging independence.
Pre-School 3-6 yrs
At this age, these youngsters are transforming into the conscious worker. Children become absorbed in perfecting activities they only absorbed during the 03 year old age group. Eighty percent of the childs brain is developed within the first six years of life, a time which forms the foundation for later living and learning. The will of the child is developed through encouragement and praise, which in turn develops concentration. Using the sensitive period of repetition the child is encouraged to aim for perfection. Consequently, independence, self-confidence and concentration are achieved. Early education is vital. The 3-6 year olds need to learn to make a clear distinction between fantasy and reality and teachers and parents alike help them in making this distinction.
The Class
The 3-6 class consists of approximately 22 children per age group, two qualified teachers and depending on numbers, an assistant. The children work with specially designed Montessori materials, which provide a concrete base to abstract understanding. Formalized learning of writing, reading and numeracy also begins during this stage.
Available from Grade 7
Monday
07:30 - 16:00
Tuesday
07:30 - 16:00
Wednesday
07:30 - 16:00
Thursday
07:30 - 16:00
Friday
07:30 - 16:00
Saturday
Closed
Sunday
Closed
01/07/2026 09:20 local time
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