As of the start of the new school year in 2023, Tzaneen welcomed the official opening of its first Montessori school located in Lushof just outside of town.
The vision to open this school came about after Willem and Louina Oosthuizen decided to offer their only child a brighter future and thus, through the investment of local sponsors, the dedication by a literal army of friends and interested parents, Liam’s Voice Montessori became a reality. Young Liam was born with Down-syndrome.
Opening on Wednesday the 11th of January 2023 with 10 eager little students with anticipating teachers “Izzy” and Thandi to guide them along their new path.
Located on Plot 31 Lushof (no 14 Bosveld Lane), with an incredible view and a mere five minutes away from Tzaneen, the school is tranquil and accessible. Set on the same premises as “Calming Canters” known for its well established Equi-therapy centre run by Yolani Boersma.
The horse assisted therapy in its basic form is part of the Liam’s Voice Montessori curriculum while more intensive lessons will be scheduled for extra-curriculum activities to those students who wish to participate.
“Order is one of the needs of life which, when satisfied, produces real happiness” – Maria Montessori. In your child’s journey of “becoming” the Montessori curriculum will nurture order, concentration and independence. Students are part of a close, caring community and will enjoy freedom within limits. They are supported in becoming active seekers of knowledge.
Self-correction and self-assessment are integral parts of the Montessori classroom approach. The Montessori philosophy supports social-emotional skills through relationships, interactions and activities. Key areas of the curriculum include Practical Life Skills; Sensorial; Mathematics; Language and Cultural studies.
Liam’s Voice Montessori caters primarily to mainstream students in the 3-6 years age group, English medium with Christian ethos with plans to appoint an Afrikaans-speaking tutor in the future.
As the year commences, the school will review policy according to their growth and the needs of the community. For any further inquiries, parents are invited to contact Israel Pienaar, Directress, on 064 904 5640, Sarah Cornish on 061 536 2092 or via email on liamsvoicemontessori@gmail.com
