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Waiheke Montessori Centre
The [Montessori Method] was first brought to Waiheke in 1996 by Lee A Elliott. He established Waiheke Montessori Centre, to provide an education based on Dr. Maria Montessori's philosophy, for his own children, and the local community.
The Early Childhood section operated as a licensed Playgroup, and the Elementary classes as a legal Homeschooling Group - accountable to the Ministry of Education for curriculum monitoring. The grassroots, home-based feel proved popular with a number of island personalities who wanted a less institutionalized education model for their children. Complimenting the long established Wardolf - Steiner programme at Fossil Bay Farm, the Centre gave parents a second option based on an humanist, holistic approach to education.
Existing in a number of locations (once occupying Hekerua Lodge) the organization needed to continually cater to the needs, and size, of a fluctuating enrolled body. With limited funding and relying heavily on parental contributions; the Centre continually evolved and adapted.
The school closed its doors by the end of 2006. The eventual opening of a second primary school on the island leading to a drop in enrollments. That coupled with poor funding, meant that the Centre was no longer sustainable.