FAQs
Do you offer online courses?
Yes. We offer many courses entirely online, including our AMI Orientation Certificates and a range of workshops and professional learning programs.
AMI Orientation Certificates include live online sessions, independent work and local observation requirements.
Our AMI Diploma courses are delivered in a blended format, combining live online study with required in-person blocks.
Is the AMI Orientation course new?
No. AMI Orientation courses have been offered for several years. They were previously known as AMI Assistants Courses. AMI renamed these courses as Montessori Orientations to better describe their purpose and to avoid confusion with the AMI Assistants to Infancy Diploma.
AMI Orientation Certificates provide an introduction to Montessori principles and practice at the relevant age level. The course is 60 hours, with an additional 9 hours of observation. The course sessions are conducted entirely live online.
AMI also has an optional Assistants Course Adjunct, which may be offered to supplement the AMI Orientation Certificate with additional practical experience relating to the role of the adult in the Montessori environment. This may be undertaken after the live AMI Orientation course is completed.
How widely is the AMI Diploma recognised?
AMI Diplomas are issued by the Association Montessori Internationale and are recognised internationally within the Montessori sector. The AMI Diploma is consistent across AMI training centres around the world for the relevant age level: 0–3, 3–6, 6–12 or 12–18.
The AMI Diploma does not automatically qualify a graduate to work as a registered teacher or early childhood educator. In Australia and overseas, government, regulatory or employer requirements may also apply. AMI qualifications do not form part of the Australian Qualifications Framework.
No. For AMI Diploma courses, students may pay upfront or by instalment. We offer a standard instalment plan over 10 months and may also consider custom payment arrangements by agreement.
For AMI Orientation Certificates and shorter courses, fees are generally payable on enrolment, however we have several payment plans available for you to select or you can agree a customised plan.
Please refer to the Fees page for current amounts, discounts and payment terms.
If you are looking for an introduction to Montessori principles and how adults can support children’s development, an AMI Orientation Certificate is a strong starting point.
If you are preparing for a deeper Montessori teaching or guiding role, an AMI Diploma provides a much more detailed course of study at the relevant age level.
We are happy to discuss your background, goals and circumstances before you apply. Just email us at [email protected].
AMI Orientation Certificates are 60 hours, with an additional 9 hours of observation. We usually undertake 33 hours live online together and other hours are completed in our own time under our guidance.
AMI Diploma courses are substantial courses of study and include lectures, supervised practice, written work, observation and practice teaching. At SMTC, they are generally delivered part time over approximately 12 to 26 months, depending on the age level, location and course schedule.