The Montessori Method was developed by Dr. Maria Montessori in the early 1900s. It’s a specific child-centered method of education that involves child-led activities (referred to as “work”), classrooms with children of varying ages and teachers who encourage independence among their pupils.

The Wellan Institute Teacher Education Program (Wellan TEP) is an Early Childhood adult education program run by the Wellan Institute. The course is a 13-month Montessori Education Program that runs from May of one year to June the following year. By the end of this program, an adult learner will receive a Montessori Certification.

Wellan TEP requires a bachelor’s degree to receive a full certification. Those who have a high school diploma or GED but not a bachelor’s degree or for those whose credentials are not verified as equivalent to a 4-year degree from an accredited college or university in the United States will get an Associate’s Degree.

The 13 month program cycle offers one academic course during spring over two weekends, and five week all day classes during the summer. The learners can begin their practicum after the summer academic phase. Four weekend seminars offered during the school year follow the summer session to complete all the academic classes.

What makes Wellan TEP unique is that the focus is on understanding the child, resulting in a deeper knowledge of oneself, as well as the intensive study of Montessori materials. Our instructors are all trained teachers of Wellan Montessori School with years of experience working in a Montessori environment. Wellan Montessori School has proved its excellence and commitment to Montessori education for many years and The Wellan Institute will continue to ensure that the same level of quality is followed while implementing its teacher training program.

The classes are from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. There will be a half an hour break and two 10 minute breaks for snack and stretching. The schedule of the day alternates between lectures, presentations, small group works, and practice sessions.

The learners are expected to create albums for most of the classes and the submission deadline will be provided during each class.

The cost of the program is $6,050. It includes the application fee and the course tuition paid in full. The fee increases if you opt for payment in two installments to $6,150. For more information about tuition, click here.

Wellan Institute is committed to making Montessori teacher training available to students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. Wellan TEP has the capacity to offer 1-2 need-based partial tuition scholarships annually to students who are paying tuition and fees themselves (that is, a school or employer is not covering the cost of training). Proof of financial need is required. For details, contact the Program Director.

Yes. Most schools in the United States will hire an adult who has completed their Montessori Certification and received Full Teaching Credential from AMS. If you get an Associates degree we strongly recommend that you work towards getting your full certification to get better opportunities for employment.

The Program Director can help answer any questions you have regarding the course. Email institute@wellan.org with any questions.